Fitting tribute Firefighters will run 10K in full kit to honour colleague

WHEN Ollie Hatfield lost his two-year battle with bowel cancer in 2023, the impact on Avon Fire and Rescue Service was immediate and profound.

- Lewis CLARKE

Known for his kindness, infectious sense of humour and unwavering dedication to the job, Ollie left behind a family, countless friends, and colleagues determined to ensure his memory lives on.

Now, in one of the most physically and emotionally gruelling tributes imaginable, firefighters will run the Bristol 10K in full fire kit and breathing apparatus - carrying an extra 25kg on their backs - to honour the man who inspired them both professionally and personally.

Among those lacing up their boots is 26-year-old Ben Beacham, who will join two other firefighters in facing the brutal test on Sunday, May 11. Their goal is not only to commemorate Ollie's life, but also to raise funds for Cancer Research UK and The Firefighters Charity, supporting those affected by the devastating illnesses linked to a profession.

"Ollie wasn't just a colleague," Ben said. "He was someone I genuinely looked up to. He had this great sense of humour and a way of making everyone feel welcome. He brought energy and heart into everything he did."

For Ben, the loss was deeply personal. Growing up around the fire service thanks to his father's 18-year career, Ben first encountered Ollie at fire service events when he was just 12 years old. Ollie's warmth, approachability and ability to make anyone feel included left a mark that would shape Ben's own path into firefighting.

When Ben joined Avon Fire and Rescue at 18, he found himself working alongside Ollie - an experience that transformed admiration into genuine friendship. It is that bond, built over six years side by side, that now fuels Ben's determination to honour his fallen mentor.