'Solidarity' sees fire engines sent to Ukraine

Avon Fire and Rescue plans to deliver fire engines and equipment to Odessa

Firefighters are sending a convoy of surplus fire engines and equipment to Ukraine.

Avon Fire and Rescue Service plans to deliver two fire engines, a hovercraft and vital rescue equipment to Odessa, where hundreds of fire stations and vehicles have been destroyed.

It comes after solidarity talks between Bristol City Council and the Ukraine port city in 2024 resulted in a request for emergency fire equipment.

Chair of Avon Fire Authority and councillor Paul Goggin said: "This donation reflects the compassion and solidarity of our community."

The effort was inspired by the Bristol Ukrainian community, who helped build a friendship link between Bristol and Odessa in 2024 and requested support for emergency services.

Ukraine Aid and Welfare (UAW) had been instrumental in building relationships between Bristol and Odessa, Avon Fire and Rescue said.

"This is what international friendship looks like," Tom Renhard, from Bristol City Council said.

"Real help, real impact, right when it's needed."

Avon Fire and Rescue says the donation will have no impact on frontline services

The donation also includes personal protective gear, water rescue tools, and road traffic collision equipment.

The donation will have no impact on frontline services or existing commitments, Avon Fire and Rescue Service said.

Mr Goggin went on to explain how the donation was a "powerful example" of how UK fire services could help those "facing unimaginable hardship".

"Travelling with our crews to deliver this equipment is a privilege," he said.

"This isn't just about vehicles - it's about people.

"We want the people of Ukraine to know they're not alone."

Mr Goggin is set to join the firefighters on their journey to Ukraine later this year.