Home / Disasters and Accidents / 30 Runs, 20kg Bale: A Tribute to a Friend
30 Runs, 20kg Bale: A Tribute to a Friend
14 Aug
Summary
- Man runs 30 times carrying a 20kg hay bale.
- Challenge honors his close friend who died in a crash.
- Funds raised for Shropshire Rural Support charity.
Lee Firmstone, from Broseley, Shropshire, is embarking on an extraordinary challenge to honor his late friend, Will Rogers. Dubbed "The Bale Man," Firmstone is completing 30 runs, each while carrying a 20kg hay bale on his back. This endeavor marks what would have been Will Rogers' 30th birthday.
Rogers, who was 26, tragically passed away in the early hours of April 30, 2022, after being struck by a van on the B4368 near Craven Arms. The driver involved later received a community order and a driving ban for failing to stop and report the collision. Firmstone described Rogers as "loved by everybody" and finds pride in undertaking this challenge in his memory.
This unique tribute also serves as a fundraiser for Shropshire Rural Support. Firmstone and Rogers first met at William Brookes School when they were 12, developing a friendship that lasted into adulthood. Firmstone stated that this event is a fitting way to celebrate his friend's life.
