CHILDREN who are going through cancer treatment at a Hampshire hospital had a wonderful day of respite as they took trips on more than 30 vintage fire appliances.
The special day, called The Piam Brown Ward Fire Engine Adventure, returned for its 34th year on Saturday.
People came from all over the country to make the day one to remember for the children and their families, who have all either been patients or are currently undergoing treatment at the children's cancer ward at Southampton General Hospital.
Thirty-four vintage appliances met at Paultons Park in Ower, before setting off with their sirens and blue lights on journey across the Hampshire countryside towards Totton.
They then enjoyed a day at the theme park, with lunch and 250 cakes donated by Portsmouth burger bar Monster Mick's.
Co-organiser Keith 'Jethro' Allgood, who also runs fire safety firm Wessex Fire and Rescue Service, said he was delighted to see so many people donate time and services to help the day go smoothly for the 31 families.
He said: "When you see the smiles on the families' faces, it's great. It is the best thing in our year. It is something for the families to take part in together.
"They have a fantastic day. It is a total getaway for them. If you can give them some hope and make them smile again, then it's worth it."
Keith has organised the event for 30 years, along with Jon Bickers and Brian Pearson.
The day was first started by McCormick Recovery in Eastleigh 34 years ago and has been to various locations such as Marwell Zoo and Beaulieu over the years.
Chris Mallet, who runs South East Fire and Rescue, a charity that helps employ ex-emergency services personnel and veterans, said he was honoured to help.
Chris, with help from his five-year-old daughter Lola Cope, took a family out in his ex-London fire engine.
He said: "It is such a privilege to be part of. The families have gone through so much in such a short period of time, but some of them are still so happy. It is a big eye opener.
"The boy we took out loved it, it was a great day for all the families."
Paulina Trzcinska, from Bournemouth, was with her five-year-old son Adam Lewandowski, daughter Alicja, 13, and mother Wanda.
Adam was diagnosed with cancer in his right eye when he was just three years old.
They have completed treatment and rang the bell - a sign that he is clear of cancer - in May.
She said: "It was an amazing day. To be honest, it was really great.
"We didn't expect a lot so it was really emotional. Adam was on the fire engine and he loved it. When they turned on the siren, that really made it for him - and for all of us.
"We had an amazing day at Paultons Park afterwards too. The whole thing was brilliant."
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