New fire engines under threat

The Fire Service says new vehicles are needed in the next decade

Plans to replace Cornwall's fire engines with newer models could be at risk because of a funding crisis.

The county council has been warned that a delay in replacing the appliances could have serious repercussions.

But the authority is facing a budget shortfall of more than £2m.

Cornwall Fire Brigade says its fleet of fire engines needs replacing with more up-to-date models.

Leasing vehicles

The county council has been told the new vehicles will be essential over the next decade.

It has been warned that if there is a delay in replacing them, any resulting deaths could leave the council liable to be sued.

The local authority is now looking at new ways of funding the replacements.

These include using money from reserves, or leasing rather than buying new vehicles.