THERE was water, water everywhere when a group of big-hearted hospital staff took on the ultimate Ice Bucket Challenge with the help of local firefighters.

Staff from the children’s ward at Basingstoke hospital, including play assistants, dieticians, physiotherapists and a consultant, were soaked with two-and-a-half thousand litres of water, all in aid of local charity Anna’s Challenges.

Organiser Beth Chin, a children’s therapy assistant, said: “Everyone was keen to get involved and we’re really grateful to the firefighters for making this Ice Bucket Challenge really special.”

Anna’s Challenges, set up by local mum Rachel Marke and her husband Paul, raises money for children with Cystic Fibrosis, and has worked closely with the hospital and Basingstoke fire station in the past. They set up the charity after their daughter Anna, now six, was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis.

Beth said: “Most people on the ward have come into contact with Anna, and it is a great cause.”

A total of 20 women and men were soaked by the firefighters – first with ice buckets, and then with hoses and a aerial ladder platform, which unleashed two-and-a-half-thousands litres of cold water on the fundraisers.

Station commander Ian Wadmore said they were making a special effort for Anna’s Challenges, having worked with them in the past.

He said: “It is a bit of fun and we have supported the charity over many years. I wouldn’t do it myself, though. We recycle all of our water, so this won’t go to waste.”

Many Basingstoke businesses and individuals have taken part in the Ice Bucket Challenge after the stunt went viral.

The challenge started in America for ALS, which raises money for sufferers of the illness, also known as Motor Neurone Disease.

Rachel, who watched from the sidelines, said she was very grateful for the support of the hospital staff.

The team did not set themselves a specific target, but hope to raise hundreds through the stunt.

To make a donation to Anna’s Challenges, visit annaschallenges.org.uk.