Firefighters proved to be poles apart from their nearest rivals after claiming an unofficial world record.

Ten crew members at Uckfield station took on the challenge to set a new record for the furthest vertical distance travelled down a fireman’s pole in one hour.

The previous record, held by firefighters from Hove, was 5,240 metres but the Uckfield crew easily beat that when they slid a total of 6,188 metres.

A specially rigged pole, about two and half-metres tall, was set up outside the station building on Saturday for the challenge.

It took place during a fundraising open day at the station, which included 20 charity stalls, face-painting, a bouncy castle, fire engine rides and various other entertainments.

The attempt needs to be officially verified by the Guinness Book of Records but organisers are confident of their success.

Proceeds from the challenge will go to the Fire Fighters Charity, which supports injured and traumatised crewmen and women and their families.

Charity fundraiser Richard Broady said: “There were a lot of people there on the day and the team were getting plenty of support as they went through the challenge.

“It was really warm and sunny and so they were getting very tired by the end but they kept at it and they ended up being very successful.

“It was a tremendous effort and they are delighted. As well as breaking the record, a lot of money has also been raised today for our charity.

“It costs more than £9million a year to keep the Fire Fighters Charity running.

“With no government funding, we rely completely on the generosity and enthusiasm of our supporters.”

The charity’s three rehabilitation centres help firefighters get back on their feet after injury, trauma and problems in their lives.

Serving and retired crew members can also call the trained advisers on its helpline for support for any issues, from claiming benefits to improving family relationships.

People can make a donation to the record-breaking pole drop challenge at www.justgiving.com/Paul-Henty1 or visit www.firefighterscharity.org/donate.