FIREFIGHTERS and volunteers stood side-by-side in a show of unity to raise money for charity.

On Saturday fundraisers took part in the Tadley Truck Pull, which saw participants pull a fire engine 3.2 miles around the town with 55 participants taking part in the event, which started at the Tadley Fire Station, in Franklin Avenue.

The route then progressed along Franklin Avenue, to Bishopswood Lane, round the A340 before heading towards the Calleva Arms, in Little London Road where the pull finished.

Crew manger at Tadley Fire Station, Gary Blackman told the Gazette: “The idea came after we first did an engine pull in 2015.

“We found that it was a really good opportunity for the whole community to get involved and show their support.”

He added: “By starting on Franklin Avenue, which is one of the busiest roads in the town, there was a lot of people out and about who were showing their support for those people who were pulling the engine.”

So far, the event has raised more than £2,000 which will be donated to the Fire Fighters Charity.

The charity supports people who are involved in the fire service and their loved ones.

Gary added: “There was a really buoyant atmosphere on the streets of Tadley.

“A lot of people lined the streets and were cheering on the people who were pulling the engine.

“Even when the teams switched up those who weren’t pulling were walking alongside shouting words of encouragement.”

The event finished at the Calleva Arms where the pubs owners were hosting a barbecue for the participants.

Each participant was welcomed to the pub with a burger and a pint once they completed the one hour and 15 minute pull.

To support and to donate to the Fire Fighters Charity visit firefighterscharity.org.uk.