Devon and Somerset Fire Authority votes in 25% expenses rise

A controversial proposal to increase the allowances of Devon & Somerset Fire Authority's members by 25% has been voted through.

The chairman cast the deciding vote but councillors and the Fire Brigades Union have described the move as "grossly out of order" and "disgusting".

Conservative councillor Derek Yeomans said: "It's going to be very contentious."

They also voted for a 3% rise in their share of the council tax.

Bob Walker, from the Fire Brigades Union, said: "We appreciate they work hard, but so do the employees.

"The firefighters haven't had any pay rises, 1% at the most this year, so people who work for the organisation are going to be pretty disgusted."