Firefighters seek gold in Games

More than 5,000 people will take part in the 10th World Firefighters Games

More than 5,000 firefighters from across the globe have descended on Merseyside for the 10th World Firefighters Games.

The biennial event features officers from 38 countries pitting their strength and skills against each other in 72 different sports.

The Echo Arena staged the opening ceremony at 1500 BST.

Heading the sporting challenges is the Toughest Firefighter Alive event, which takes place on Wednesday.

To win the ultimate honour, competitors must roll up a hose, carry an 80kg dummy for around 100 metres and climb the 550 steps up the Radio City Tower while wearing breathing apparatus.

Football, swimming and horse riding are among the other events being held.

'Quality athletes'

Dave Robinson, general manager of the games, said: "As in the Olympics we have a medals table at the end and people compete as an individual and for their country.

"We are looking forward to a fantastic competition. There are some real quality athletes although the games are very inclusive."

Sports Minister Gerry Sutcliffe MP officially opened the tournament and competitors took part in a midday parade.

A waterfront display by the Fire Service jet skis and marine boat will also be held and will end with a world-record breaking 'Hey-Jude-sing-a-thon' to mark the city's Beatles link.

Merseyside Chief Fire Officer Tony McGuirk said: "We expect these to be the biggest and most successful Games ever."

The first World Firefighters Games was staged in New Zealand in 1990.