A WORLD record was broken at Salisbury Fire Station at the weekend.

Roofer Keith Saunders, 46, climbed the equivalent of 13,239m on a ladder in a 24-hour marathon effort – smashing the previous record of 13,120m – to raise funds for a trip to Borneo to work with a charity that inspires young people to volunteer and work with communities living in poverty.

The record attempt coincided with an open day at the fire station held as part of the 50-year anniversary of the move of fire fighters to the Ashley Road site.

Hundreds of people came along to enjoy all the activities on offer in the sunshine as well as to learn more about the job firefighters do and the equipment they use.

Station manager Mike Bagnall said: “It was a fantastic day. A lot of people came, and it was just a good family day out. Everyone enjoyed themselves and there was a lot to do.”

The firefighters are marking the year with a series of events raising money for local good causes and the Fire Fighters Charity.

They have already raised money to buy a specialised trike for eight-year-old Jayden Beaven, who was left disabled following an accident three years ago, and will continue throughout the year.

More information is available at salisburyfirestation.info.