An emergency service is celebrating the arrival of its purchased asset to help keep members of the public safe.

Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service (NFRS) new pre-used aerial ladder platform (ALP) has arrived for the team to use in upcoming incidents.

The ALP cost around £50,000 and came from Northumberland County Council's risk critical equipment budget.

It was seen as an 'essential' after a recent serious fire in Haltwhistle, which was the largest building fire in Northumberland for a considerable time.

The team were pleased that it was decided that they would finally own one instead of borrowing it from other area services.

The vehicle has the capability to extend its boom package upwards to around 27 meters, it can also extend outwards to 23 metres and the operating cage has a working load of 400 kg, enough for four firefighters and a range of equipment.  

Asst Chief Fire Officer Jim McNeil:"I would like to place on record my thanks to Northumberland County Council for the support and investment in securing this vehicle which will provide an outstanding addition to our existing firefighting and rescue capabilities.

"To maintain a modern fire and rescue service, it is important to continually review and evaluate emerging risks and new demands that we continually face. This vehicle will give our residents the reassurance and confidence that we have the equipment and capability to respond effectively to a wide range of incidents."

"The Aerial Ladder Platform (ALP) is designed to apply water to fires from above,  it will also help in rescues from tall buildings, provide observation platforms and carry out rescues from difficult to reach locations, both above and below ground level."