FIREFIGHTER Phil Barton has made it to Chudleigh as part of his trek across the country raising money for the Fire Fighters Charity.

Phil, 41, a firefighter with London Fire Service, is now part way through his 550mile bike ride visiting the three centres of the Fire Fighters Charity.

He started his journey in the Lake District heading to Harcombe House residential centre in Chudleigh which provides rest and rehabilitation and has a full-equipped gym, specialist treatment rooms, an indoor swimming pool and hydrotherapy pool.

He has battled strong winds and rain to reach Chudleigh yesterday.

His wife Katie said: ‘It was a tough day for him with two very sore legs, but he made it.’

Phil has already raised almost £3,000 for the charity which provides care and support to firefighters, control staff, and all those working in, or retired from, the UK’s fire services.

He will now head to the finish in Sussex.

Phil said: ‘I have used their therapy and wellbeing services on a number of occasions now, and having the support of therapists and programmes run by professionals, alongside the amazing support of a caring and understanding wife, have been invaluable in my journey - one which I know will be ongoing, but I feel a bit better equipped to deal with knowing I have the support there when needed.’

To support Phil, go to https://www.justgiving.com/page/phil-barton?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL