A team of Colchester firefighters will be aiming to set a new world record in a climbing attempt.

Thirty-two firefighters from blue, green and white watches at Colchester fire station will be mounting an expedition in July 2009 to climb Ben Nevis in breathing apparatus.

Only two firefighters will be wearing the equipment, which weighs about 16kg, but the rest of the team will be positioned at intervals up the mountain ready to swap the tanks as each set of equipment runs out.

Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the UK, at 4,409ft.

The record was set by firefighters from Manchester, but the current time to beat - two hours and 22mins - is held by Colchester firefighters and was set more than ten years ago.

Their aim this year is to complete the climb in less than two hours. They are currently awaiting confirmation from the Guinness Book of Records that their attempt will be recognised.

The event is not just for the glory of taking the record - it is hoped it will raise at least £10,000 for charity.

The chosen charities are the Firefighters' Charity, formerly the Firefighters' National Benevolent Fund, and Essex Air Ambulance.

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