FIREFIGHTERS risk their lives everyday through flames, smoke and collapsing buildings to save others.

But even on their day off, members of the service from Eynsham's station still managed to serve the public by getting covered head to toe in mud for three charities.

Eynsham firefighters took on a gruelling Tough Mudder challenge at the weekend to raise cash for Helen & Douglas House, The Firefighters Charity and Cancer Research UK.

The 14-strong team smashed the 12-mile extreme obstacle course in Cirencester Park to raise more than £4,000 for the three causes.

Some were plunged into ice-cold water, while others even got electric shocks and tear gassed during the challenge.

Firefighter Stuart Smith said the money raised so far was a "fantastic" amount.

He added: "It was definitely tough and very, very muddy, but surprisingly enjoyable for most of the time.

"We work as a team being firefighters and this event highlighted what great team spirit we have at the station.

"Knowing that we were raising money for such great charities certainly made us all determined to make it to the finish line.

"If someone hadn't been able to carry on the remainder would have carried them over.

"Money is still being donated and we have now raised more than £4,000 which is a fantastic amount."

This was the latest in a series of challenges the station has carried out over the year for the charities.

With a total group weight of 1,214kg, an average team age of 47, and 161 years combined of firefighting experience, the team has given up alcohol in January and rowed hundreds of miles – and now completed the Tough Mudder.

Team member Colin Jacob said: "This definitely wasn't be easy for us even if we are all firefighters.

"We are did this for three fantastic charities that are close to our hearts. We started and finished as a team no matter how long it took us.

"Thanks to everyone that has helped us raise such an amazing amount so far."

Back in June, children from Helen & Douglas House were asked by the firefighters to come up with designs for the team's challenge day T-shirts, which were worn by the team on the day.

To donate to the cause, visit justgiving.com/teams/eynsham-firefighters