If you spot eight paramedics running through Birmingham city centre with a stretcher on Sunday 4 May, don’t panic!

It will be West Midlands Ambulance Service Hazardous Area Response Team (WMAS HART) taking on their latest test – the AJ Bell Great Birmingham Run half marathon.

From saving people in high-risk environments, like a collapsed building or at height, to working as a team in fast moving water, WMAS HART are trained for a challenge.

So, the specialist paramedics will be aiming to take this one in their stride – despite running the 13.1-mile course in full uniform, including helmets and boots, and with their equipment.

The eight members of WMAS HART D team, which is based in Oldbury, will be among 16,000 runners taking to the streets of Birmingham for the AJ Bell Great Birmingham Run half marathon and 10k on Sunday, 4 May.

They’ll follow a route filled with iconic landmarks, including the world-famous Jewellery Quarter, beautiful St Paul’s Square, the Mailbox and Grand Central at New Street Station with a grandstand finish in Smithfield.

WMAS HART Team Leader Dale Wallis and fellow paramedics Sam Heap, Sean McNiece, Jon Hunt, Rob Griffiths, Jake Sykes, Tom Dauncey and Ben Popple are hoping to raise £5,000 for The Ambulance Staff Charity (TASC) and Together for Short Lives charity by completing the course.

The Ambulance Staff Charity supports frontline ambulance workers by offering services such as mental health support and counselling.

While Together for Short Lives provides support to very ill, often palliative, children and their families.

HART Team Leader Dale Wallis says: “It will be a huge challenge for us to carry all our equipment in uniform over 13.1 miles. This challenge allows us to strengthen our teamwork, engage with the community, and make a positive impact to two important and worthwhile charities. It will add a completely different dynamic to any previous running events we’ve completed, but it’s a challenge we’re looking forward to.

“We want to raise money for two vitally important and worthwhile charities; for example, all of the team have experience of either being supported by The Ambulance Staff Charity or know friends and colleagues who have been supported with their emotional and mental health, so it is very close to our hearts.”

To donate to the HART Team challenge visit D Team WMAS HART is fundraising

Last year’s AJ Bell Great Birmingham Run sold out in advance and the same is expected for 2025 so entering early is advised. To secure your place at the start line, click here.