Firefighters and volunteers reunite Shaw residents with pets

Firefighters and volunteers reunite Shaw residents with pets

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Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) volunteers have been helping firefighters to rescue animals from homes affected by the explosion in Shaw.

Post Incident Teams (PIT) have rescued a range of pets from homes in the streets surrounding Buckley Street where the blast occurred on Tuesday 26 June.

Several cats and kittens, a handful of dogs and rabbits, three hamsters and a terrapin were among the animals rescued from houses in the area, many of which were damaged in the explosion.

Homes in Edmund Street, Chancery Lane, Gordon Street and Oak Street were searched by the PIT teams and firefighters throughout this afternoon (Wednesday 27 June) but properties directly inside the inner cordon were still deemed unsafe to enter.

The rescue and clean-up activity has been supported by the Salvation Army throughout the day providing food and water for the crews, volunteers and rescued animals.

Amongst the animals rescued was Alfie the two-year-old chocolate Labrador who was later reunited with his tearful owners.

Owner Emma Fawcett said: "It's been devastating. Knowing Alfie was alone in the house was heart-breaking. I think it's amazing what the fire service and the volunteers have been doing this afternoon.

"Everyone has been so nice and it's a huge relief knowing Alfie is safe."

Firefighters and police worked together to contact families who had been evacuated from their homes on Tuesday and establish what pets they had and what condition they were likely to be in.

One cat was suffering a heart condition so volunteers fed and watered the animal and secured the cat flap.

The clean-up operation is continuing but fire crews will be scaled back this evening.

Area Manager Dave Keelan, Head of GMFRS’ Prevention Services, said: "We’re pleased our volunteers and firefighters have been able to bring some comfort to the residents of Shaw during this difficult time by reuniting them with their pets.

"The PIT team provides practical support by helping people as quickly as possible after incidents and, hopefully, put them on the road to getting over their ordeal that little bit sooner."