'Lives at risk' in crew shortages

There are only four retained firefighters in Lewes instead of 16

Difficulties recruiting part-time firefighters in East Sussex could cost lives, according to senior officers.

Lewes Fire Station says it needs 16 retained firefighters for it to operate properly. At the moment it has four.

The station has to rely on crews from other stations to help if an emergency requires more than one appliance.

The fire service is issuing leaflets in an effort to recruit more part-time staff. It says it is especially targeting mothers at home.

'Increase the risk'

Every time there is a house fire, two fire engines are called to attend.

In Lewes, one engine will be sent from the station but instead of a retained fire crew being called out the station has to get back-up from one elsewhere in the county.

John Ticehurst, senior fire officer, said: "The first appliance will arrive promptly but the back up appliance will be delayed by several minutes.

"That will increase the risk to the people of Lewes and the surrounding villages."

The shortage of retained firefighters is said to be affecting stations across Kent and Sussex.