A NEW fire engine is being sent to Upton-Upon-Severn, with new firefighters being hired.

The machine is being manufactured along with two others, which will be sent to Bromsgrove and Ross on Wye.

The news comes after 3,000 people signed a petition earlier this year demanding an end to ‘dangerous cuts’ to fire service staffing levels across the county.

The petition, launched by former watch commanders, called on fire chiefs to stop cuts to the number of full-time firefighters on duty at night, across Worcestershire and Herefordshire.

The engine being sent to Upton will have a compressed air foam system as well as a standard water delivery pump.

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Upton-Upon-Severn station commander Stewart Dewar said: “The Service provides our firefighters with some really good equipment and this will be another high-quality addition.

“It will help to maintain our current high standards and will play an important role in keeping our communities safe.

“With the Compressed Air Foam System and a more efficient hose reel jet, it will give a great capability for both internal and external firefighting.”

Along with the new engines, the fire service is calling for new firefighters to sign up.

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On Facebook, the service said: “How would you like to join our team of on-call firefighters and travel in one of these?

“It’s easier than you think and we’re looking for new firefighters right now.

“So if you live or work within five minutes of the station and can respond to fire calls whilst you’re going about your business, please get in touch and find out more.”

The fire engine is being created by Emergency One Group.

In July this year, four new firefighters joined stations across the county, one of whom, Kenneth Edward, went to Upton Fire Station.