Littleborough fire station launches appeal for part-time firefighters

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Fire-fighters tackle moorland fire at Blackstone Edge earlier this month

Littleborough Community Fire Station has launched an appeal to recruit part-time firefighters to help them save lives and protect property in the town.

The station is running a drop in sessions for men and women who are interested in joining Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) on Tuesday 25 June, between 7.00pm and 9.00pm.

Part time firefighters are a vital part of GMFRS providing lifesaving cover for rural communities.

They are trained to the same high standards as their whole time equivalents and must meet the same high standards for selection.

Retained firefighter, Paul Hoey, said: “You get a big variety of jobs at Littleborough. We have moorland fires, but you also get house fires, road traffic accidents and even people stuck in lifts.

“It is a big commitment and it takes up a lot of your time, so if you get the job you have to be prepared for it.

“Becoming retained was quite a big change for me – I don’t have the social life I used to have, but once you get used to it and submerse yourself into the job it’s not an issue.

“I’d recommend being a retained firefighter to anyone. Going through the whole application process is a great learning curve, you’ll find out a lot about yourself.”

For more information about becoming a retained firefighter and to apply please visit www.manchesterfire.gov.uk/retained.