Firefighters brace for heat of competition

Firefighters from Bermuda - including race king Jay Donawa - are travelling to Hong Kong to take part in an international contest.

A 32-strong group from the Island set off on Tuesday for the biennial World Firefighters Games, which run from from February 18 to 25.

They will compete in everything from archery and arm-wrestling to football, running and cycling during their visit to Asia.

Lieutenant Dana Lovell, from Bermuda Fire Service, said: “Our firefighters plan for this every two years and whoever is the best of the best, we ask them.

“Most people really like the challenge. This year it's a composite group of serving firefighters, along with recently retired firefighters and some people from the police service.”

Chief Fire Officer Vincent Hollinsid thanked companies, organisations and individuals who helped raise funds for the trip. He said: “We are grateful to all of the organisations who have helped to sponsor this event. “

Charity looking for volunteers

A charity which builds homes for needy families overseas plans to visit Romania this summer. Habitat Overseas Missions is a branch of Habitat for Humanity.

The group, which was due to meet last night about its next trip, is looking for volunteers to take part. Anyone interested should call group leader David Thompson on 295-1078.