Ashfield firefighter conquers Snowdon in full fire kit and breathing apparatus in record time

Lou Needham, a crew manager with Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, completed her challenge on April 11, in support of the charities PTSD 999 and the National Red Plaque Fire Service Memorial.

Lou took on the Fire Walk 2026 in full fire kit and breathing apparatus, “under air", which means breathing solely using the cylinders on her back, removing her mask only for a fiveminute hydration break each hour.

Lou followed in the footsteps of her father, Dave Needham, who completed the challenge 40 years ago.

She started the climb from Llanberis fire station, the equipment weighing about 15kg (2.4 stone).

The Llanberis Path route, covering approximately 9 miles (14.5 km) via a demanding ascent and descent, tested both physical endurance and mental resilience.

Snow patches remained at higher elevations, while strong winds of up to 60mph, driving snow, ice and low cloud cover reduced visibility at points along the summit ridge. While temperatures hovered below freezing near the summit, adding to the intensity of the challenge.

Despite the horrendous conditions, Lou maintained a steady and determined pace throughout.

Supported by a dedicated team providing navigation guidance, safety oversight, and encouragement at key checkpoints, she pushed through the toughest sections of the climb with focus and composure.

Getting to the summit, Lou recorded an outstanding completion time of two hours, 50 minutes and 46 seconds, beating the long-standing family record set by her father, Dave, who completed the challenge in two hours, 51 minutes and 15 seconds.

The support team played a vital role in the success of the challenge, managing logistics, monitoring weather conditions, and ensuring safety throughout. Their coordination allowed Lou to focus fully on the climb while maintaining pace in difficult terrain.

The challenge also aimed to raise awareness and funds for two important causes.

PTSD 999 is a charity dedicated to supporting emergency service personnel and volunteers affected by post-traumatic stress disorder, providing vital mental health support and resources to those on the frontline.

The National Red Plaque Fire Service Memorial recognises and commemorates members of the fire service who have lost their lives in the line of duty, ensuring their bravery and sacrifice are permanently honoured within their communities.

Lou said: “This was one of the toughest things I’ve ever done, especially with the weather the way it was. There were moments where the wind and hail really tested me, but I kept thinking about why I started and the support around me.

“Doing this for PTSD 999 and the Red Plaque Memorial made it even more meaningful. Beating Dad’s time means a lot—it’s something I’ve grown up hearing about, and to now have my own place in that story is incredibly special.”

Dave Needham, reflecting on both his own achievement 40 years ago and his daughter’s accomplishment, added:

“I’m immensely proud of Louise. Snowdon is no easy task, and she did it in the worst conditions I have encountered on that mountain. When I set that time all those years ago, I never imagined it would be beaten by my own daughter, but I couldn’t be happier that it has been.

“Knowing she’s done it while supporting such important charities makes it even more special. She and the support team showed real determination out there, and she’s absolutely earned this moment.”

The Fire Walk 2026 challenge highlights not only personal endurance but also the power of perseverance, preparation, and teamwork.

Lou Needham’s achievement stands as an inspiring milestone, both as a personal triumph and as a continuation of a family legacy.