Firefighter taster sessions open to public

Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service said aspiring firefighters could take part in taster sessions before applying

Members of the public have been invited to experience being a firefighter at local fire stations in Cornwall.

Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service said it would be inviting people to apply for a firefighter role from 24 September and encouraged potential recruits to attend the upcoming events.

Four Have a Go sessions have been planned across Cornwall, including in Truro, Tolvaddon, Falmouth and Bodmin.

The service said the events were open to anyone aged 18 or over and attendees would have the chance to try on firefighting gear, take part in activities and go on a tour of a station.

'Ask questions'

The service said some events were already fully subscribed but it would be adding more in September.

Katie Hoskins-Sweeney, station manager for the service, said the events offered physical exercises.

"I really want to get across that the events are open to absolutely everyone. We are a welcoming and inclusive organisation with a desire to serve the community.

"We are really hoping people will be able to have conversations and ask questions about what the role involves."

Assistant Chief Fire Officer Antony Bartlett, who is also diversity and inclusion lead, said they were keen to hear from people from a wide variety of backgrounds who were looking for a "new challenge".

“We are all different and we know that recognising our differences and being diverse helps us deliver the best service for our communities," he said.

Attendees have been advised to wear comfortable clothing and the fire service recommend wearing active wear and trainers.