Firefighters will put their strength, fitness and skills to the test when a free event returns to Northampton next weekend.

The Firefighter Challenge will take place at the University of Northampton’s Waterside Campus on Saturday, September 12.

The event, hosted by Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service, forms part of the British Firefighter Challenge series and is being held in partnership with Fire Sport UK.

Operational firefighters will compete against each other in a series of physical challenges based on activities they could face while responding to real emergencies.

Firefighters from across the country will take part in the Challenge event at Waterside Campus

placeholder image — Firefighters from across the country will take part in the Challenge event at Waterside Campus

Registration and course induction will take place from 8.30am until 10am, before the individual competitions get under way from 10am to 2.30pm.

The event is free for spectators, who will be able to watch competitors test their speed, strength and endurance.

Fire engines and crews will also be at Waterside Campus throughout the day, giving visitors the opportunity to meet local firefighters and receive fire safety advice.

The university coffee shop will also be open throughout the event.