THE county's fire service has defended a picture designed to encourage women to sign up after its subject was trolled online.

Amesbury Fire Station tweeted an image of on-call firefighter Emily Rose posing with a Barbie doll in similar kit. It was accompanied by the statistic that only 4 per cent of firefighters around the world are women. 

The station added the inspirational message “See, even Barbie can become a firefighter. She’s inspiring and showing the next generation they can be anything.”

But although many supported the station for its inclusive recruitment drive, some of the comments were less kind.

In a statement on its Facebook page, Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue said: “We’re aware that this post has been shared across Facebook and has caused some negativity. 

“Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service are happy to support anyone in our community to become an on-call firefighter. The only requirements are that you live or work within a suitable distance from the station and you can pass the physical and education tests. 

“We’re happy to accept all men and women who want to help their local communities whether or not they wear make-up and nail varnish – as our policy shows. 

“We need to ensure all our staff are safe at work, so we discuss health and safety requirements with all candidates. 

"If you’re interested in keeping your community safe, we look forward to hearing from you soon!”

Assistant chief fire officer Andy Cole said: “Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service proactively encourages anyone in our community to become a firefighter. 

“To be an on-call firefighter, the only requirements are that you live or work close to the station, and you can pass the physical and education tests. 
We run regular ‘have a go’ sessions and information events so people can better understand the role and try out some of the tasks we include in our selection process.

"Details of these events are on our website. We welcome the introduction of a Barbie firefighter doll as this highlights our commitment to a diverse workforce.”