Bicester fire crews raised more than £5,000 for Children in Need when they took to the streets despite leaving early to attend an emergency.

The philanthropic firefighters, along with Pudsey Bear, were out until 4.30pm on Friday November 17 collecting for the charity with donation buckets and a fire engine alongside.

Oxford Mail: Bicester fire crew raising money for Children in NeedBicester fire crew raising money for Children in Need (Image: Bicester Fire Station)

Having begun at 8am with the plan to stay out collecting until 6pm, the crew’s fundraising efforts were cut short when they were “called out to the M40 with the lorry that jack-knifed.”

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The firefighters collected outside the fire station on Queen’s Avenue, and at schools, including Southwold, Bure Park, St Edburg’s and King’s Meadow.

Nearby shops and takeaways helped to support the crew with snacks and drinks throughout the day.

A spokesperson for Bicester Fire Station said: “A huge thank you to Nando’s, Papa Johns and Tesco who donated snacks which kept us going throughout the day.” “We raised £5,500 in the end so a brilliant amount.”

 

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This story was written by Matthew Norman, he joined the team in 2022 as a Facebook community reporter.

Matthew covers Bicester and focuses on finding stories from diverse communities.

Get in touch with him by emailing: Matthew.norman@newsquest.co.uk

Follow him on Twitter: @OxMailMattN1