East Sussex Fire and Rescue thanks residents after thousands raised for charity

East Sussex Fire and Rescue thanked residents after a series of Christmas events raised several thousand pounds for The Fire Fighters Charity, including in excess of £7,500 at Eastbourne and £4,542.32 at Preston Circus in Brighton.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue has thanked local residents after multiple festive fundraising events across the county raised several thousand pounds for The Fire Fighters Charity. Stations opened to the public during December 2025 for Santa's grottos, collections and community gatherings. Visitors could tour engines, meet crews, enjoy refreshments and hear safety advice. Staff, volunteers and cadets helped run the events. Key details: - Eastbourne's event on December 21 collected in excess of £7,500 for The Fire Fighters Charity. - The annual collection at Preston Circus Fire Station in Brighton on December 19–20 raised £4,542.32. - The Ridge Fire Station in Hastings ran a Santa's Grotto from December 16–23, which was attended by over 370 children and raised £636.79. - Newhaven's festive fun day on December 6 raised £131.96 for the charity. - Other local efforts included Heathfield present deliveries (£60), Uckfield's Santa's Grotto (£344.90) and Rye's Christmas Day delivery service (£1,685). - Station leaders and staff expressed thanks to the public and to volunteers for their support. Summary: The funds raised across these events will support The Fire Fighters Charity and its work for serving personnel. Undetermined at this time.