A former Army recruit who was too tall to fit inside a tank is on course to become the county’s tallest firefighter.

At a lofty 6ft 8ins tall, Peter Ballisat, 20, is believed to be the tallest of Essex County and Fire Rescue Service’s 1,300 strong team of firefighters.

Peter, of Saxon Close, Halstead, is embarking on a London to Paris cycle ride with his friend Matthew Anthony, 21, in July.

They hope to raise at least £3,200 for Macmilllan Cancer Support.

Sponsor them at www.justgiving.com/Peter-Matt