AN urgent appeal was this week issued for volunteers to train as retained firefighters in Hatherleigh.

The volunteers would become part of a team of colleagues who are trained to deal with a wide range of incidents.

Bideford Watch Manager Mark Gregory said: 'We urgently require new retained staff to help out in our rural communities and we are recruiting for Holsworthy and Hatherleigh at the moment.

'I would ask anyone who might be interested to contact the information line as soon as possible to find out more.'

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service is looking for people who can respond in an emergency, particularly in rural areas.

The retained firefighters will not only deal with fires, but also road traffic accidents, floods and hazardous materials. Community safety awareness is also a very important part of the role.

Station commander for Hatherleigh Fire Station Kevin Drew said: 'Retained firefighters need to be fit, but all the training is done before the job is given.

'We are looking for people that can cover during the working week from Monday to Friday and also weekends.

'Evening cover is not so important because we have cover, but they've got to live or work within seven minutes of the fire station.

'It's a rewarding job for people that want to put something back into the community — and they also get paid for any training and call outs.

'We drill on Thursday evenings between 7pm and 9pm so anyone interested can call into the station for a chat.'

The station require candidates to be at least 18 years old and physically fit and be living and working close to the fire station.

They must also have common sense, be committed and enthusiastic, patient and understanding and be a team worker.

The fire station are keen to stress candidates can come from any walk of life and they are urged not be put off by preconceived ideas.

Other benefits of becoming a retained firefighter are full  training and the opportunity to learn new skills, as well as a basic annual payment and fees for emergency responses, training sessions and equipment maintenance, a long service bonus and respect from the community.

For more information telephone the information line on 01392 872346 or 01392 872331 or visit http://www.dsfire.gov.uk">www.dsfire.gov.uk