Hampshire firefighter raises over £40,000 for charity

Firefighter Andy Piller has reached his goal of completing 20 marathons and 40 half marathons in 52 weeks.

Published

03/06/2020 3:04pm

Author

Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service

Andy’s journey began when his best friend, Richard Williams, sadly passed away in 2010 from leukaemia, aged 29.

The former Station Manager from Southampton set himself the target of raising £40,000 by the time he turned 40 (in September 2020).

He is raising funds for Leukaemia Busters, a Southampton-based charity that support research for developing treatments for patients with leukaemia.

Andy has completed numerous challenges and sporting events – including high profile annual golf days – covering nearly 8,000 miles since he began.

During his journey the 39-year-old has completed the London Marathon, became an Ironman and completed a seven-day triathlon from Loch Ness to Richmond.

On May 25, Andy completed his final half marathon, marking the end of a long and emotional journey for the firefighter.

Andy has raised more than £42,500 for the charity.

Andy said:

“I am overwhelmed with the support I have received and to have exceeded the £40k target with four months to spare.

“I want to say the biggest thank you to all my friends and colleagues that have supported me throughout these tough, crazy amazing years.

“The support from HFRS throughout the entire route was incredible and I’ll never forget that.

“Thank you everyone. It’s been a rollercoaster experiencing all these emotions, you have been just the best and I love you all.”

Andy is now a Group Manager with West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service.

You can still make donations on Andy’s Virgin Money Giving page.

Andy’s fundraising journey was sponsored by Hilcon Ltd, D. Adams & Sons Roofing, Frost Creative, Vision Scaffolding Solutions, Ben the Barber, PowerPlus Electrical Contractors, Rutledge Sports Therapy, Carpod.com, Gracelands Ltd, Alton Sports, and Redlane Ltd.

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