The impressive fundraising effort took place during the Bexleyheath Uniformed Services Day, where teams of ambulance crews, police officers, firefighters, and soldiers joined forces to tow the massive vehicle over a two-mile course.
Olivia Peters, events and community fundraiser for the London Ambulance Charity, said: “We are so proud of the team who persevered through 30-degree heat to pull the 13-tonne truck.
“It was so impressive to see – it was an incredible display of physical strength, sheer determination, and teamwork.
“With their help, the money raised will help us support campaigns like London Lifesavers – which aims to make London a city of lifesavers by training as many people as possible in CPR.”
The £20,000 raised will be split between four charities, including the London Ambulance Charity.
Ms Peters said: “Every penny raised will go to a great cause, and so we would like to say a huge thank you to our brave truck pullers, and to every single person who so generously donated to it.”
As part of the event, the London Lifesavers team trained more than 150 members of the public in life-saving skills, including how to perform chest compressions and use a defibrillator during a cardiac arrest.
The London Ambulance Service Historic Collection also took part, showcasing a display of both modern and historic ambulances, along with vehicles from the motorcycle and cycle response units.
Craig Henty, head of the London Ambulance Service Historic Collection, said: “The day was very much a success for our truck-pull team, the historic collections team, and our charity.
“All the members of the public I spoke to were pleased to see us out in the community – and it was great to meet Bexley Mayor Councillor Christine Catterall, who stopped by to see us.
“It’s so heart-warming to see that we are held in such high regard – we are pleased visitors had such an enjoyable day out and in doing so, raised a significant sum for our charity.”
The Bexleyheath Uniformed Services Day is a community event dedicated to recognising the commitment and bravery of emergency service workers, including paramedics, military personnel, police officers, and firefighters.
Supported by The Welling Town Business Associates and Bexleyheath BID, the event brings together residents, businesses, and supporters to celebrate the work of uniformed services while raising funds for important causes.
The London Ambulance Charity has encouraged supporters to take part in upcoming fundraising events, including the London to Brighton Cycle Ride on September 14 and the London Life Hike on September 27.
