An open day at Westbury fire station on Saturday has been hailed a huge success, with more than £1,000 being raised for the Fire Fighters Charity.

Between 10am and 4pm, the station was full of local people wanting to find out more about their local firefighters.

As well as the chance to ‘have a go’ at squirting water from a hose, visitors could look inside the fire engine, chat with the Westbury crew about their work, and get advice on home and road safety.

There were also a number of stalls from local businesses, a barbecue and refreshments, games and other activities.

Over the course of the day, firefighters put on three demonstrations of their skills, including cutting a ‘casualty’ from a crashed car.

Crew Manager Martin Waker, who organised the day, said: “There hadn’t been a community event like this at the fire station for a number of years, so it was great to see the place buzzing with people enjoying the demonstrations and having fun with the activities available.

"It was also positive to have several enquiries from members of the public about becoming a retained firefighter.

"I would personally like to thank the fire service staff who helped on the day, the local businesses that attended or donated raffle prizes, and my friends and family who have been a pillar of support - without them, the event would not have been the success it was.”

Anyone who would like to know more about being a retained firefighter in Westbury can find out more by visiting the Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service website at www.wiltsfire.gov.uk/workingforus