Firefighters raise money for children's burns unit
Posted on: 3 Jun 2026
A group of firefighters from across Nottinghamshire are coming together to raise money for the Children’s Burns Unit at Nottingham Children’s Hospital – after seeing firsthand the difference the unit makes.
Crews from Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue stations across the county are taking part in Nottingham Hospitals Charity’s Dragon Boat Race on the River Trent this July.
Their team will be raising money for the Children’s Burns and Plastics Unit, which cares for children and young people across the region who have suffered serious burn injuries.
The team, led by the Arnold Red Watch crew, have dubbed themselves the Nozzle Ninjas and will go up against other teams from local organisations, as well as teams from Nottingham’s NHS hospitals, at the charity dragon boat race.
Team captain Conor Bowskill, a firefighter based at Arnold station, said: “We have chosen to support the Children’s Burns Unit as it is highly relevant to our role. We see first-hand the impact that burn injuries can have on young children, as well as the outstanding work carried out by the Children’s Burns Unit to support their treatment, recovery, and rehabilitation.
“Some of us have previously participated in the race as part of a team from City Hospital and found it thoroughly enjoyable. It had a fantastic atmosphere and proved to be a great opportunity for team building.
“This year’s team will be made up of members from several fire stations across Nottinghamshire, coming together to take part in the event. We are all very much looking forward to participating and being part of the positive and supportive atmosphere that some of us experienced previously.”
Sarah Barnes, Nursery Nurse on the Children's Burns and Plastics Unit, said: "We would like to say a huge thank you to the firefighters for choosing to support our unit through the Dragon Boat Race. Their generosity and commitment are truly appreciated.
“Every donation, no matter the size, will make a meaningful difference – helping us provide toys, activities, and resources that can reduce anxiety, make the hospital environment feel less frightening, and create a more comforting experience for children and their families during an incredibly difficult time.
“Donations also support valuable opportunities such as allowing our patients to attend children’s Burn Camps and activities, which we have seen first-hand can help children build confidence, form friendships, and feel less alone in their recovery.”
The Nottingham Hospitals Charity Dragon Boat Race takes place on Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th July 2026, at Victoria Embankment. A limited number of spaces are still available for teams of 13 to 17 people, and teams can raise money for their chosen area of Nottingham’s hospitals – including Queen’s Medical Centre, City Hospital, Nottingham Children’s Hospital, and Ropewalk House.
To sponsor the Nozzle Ninjas, please visit www.justgiving.com/page/nozzle-ninjas-notts-firefighters