Ukraine war: Shropshire fire crews set to deliver engines

Firefighters will be leaving from Shrewsbury to deliver aid, fire engines and equipment to Poland for those affected by the Russia-Ukraine War

Volunteers from Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service are setting off for Poland to deliver fire engines and equipment to colleagues in Ukraine.

Six firefighters will deliver the two decommissioned vehicles along with 250 pieces of kit.

The 1,500-mile trip will see them pass through four countries after setting off from Shrewsbury Fire Station.

They said they were "humbled" to help those affected by the war in Ukraine.

Shrewsbury area manager for the fire service, Adam Matthews, told BBC Radio Shropshire taking part in the mission was a "chance in a lifetime".

"It's a bit of a cliché, but we do talk about the firefighting family a lot… It's not just the UK fire and rescue service... it goes across the world," he said.

"We're well aware of the current situation in Ukraine and we're all wanting to help.

"I've been quite humbled to have been chosen to go and I'm sure it will be an emotional moment when we get to the other end and actually hand that equipment over knowing what difference its going to make."

Chief fire officer Rod Hammerton said of the participants: "It's not going to be an easy ride and they are giving up their own time to deliver vital, and potentially lifesaving, supplies."

Each engine will be equipped with a mechanic and a medical support team for the journey.

Along the way, the volunteers will get overnight accommodation in a mixture of homestays and fire stations.

Once in Poland they will return to the UK, while their donations cross the border into Ukraine.