New on-call firefighters – who help to run three key fire stations in Harborough - are being recruited across Leicestershire

New on-call firefighters – who help to run three key fire stations in Harborough - are being recruited across Leicestershire.

The recruitment campaign is being launched by Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service on Monday (February 1) as the 999 service sets out to strengthen in 2021.

On-Call firefighters help to crew up fire stations in Market Harborough, Lutterworth and Kibworth providing vital 999 cover to a huge swathe of the district.

Callum Faint, Chief Fire and Rescue Officer, said: “Whether you’re looking for a way to give back to your community or you want to take on a challenge outside of your day-to-day job, then this could be the role for you!

“On-Call Firefighters play a very important role in operational response, working alongside Wholetime Firefighters to respond to emergency calls and achieve our purpose of ‘safer people, safer places’.”

On-Call firefighters do not work full-time.

They are paid to spend some periods of their time available on-call to respond to emergency incidents.

Many have full-time jobs, others may be self-employed or stay at home parents.

The recruitment website for applications will open shortly and will be announced on the service’s website and social media channels.

Callum added: “During these challenging times of Covid, it’s now more important than ever that we’re here to support our community in any way possible.

“We are excited to welcome new On-Call Firefighters to our team to help in this mission.”

The service will be staging a series of ‘Eventbrite’ sessions where candidates can ask questions, get a feel for what the role entails and learn more about the recruitment process.

To find out more about being an On-Call firefighter, go to leics-fire.gov.uk/on-callOn-Call firefighter Anna Robertson, who’s based at Market Harborough fire station on Fairfield Road, said: "I’m really proud to be part of the On-Call team here in Market Harborough.

“I was a little hesitant to apply at first, as I had assumed, I didn’t fit the stereotypical firefighter mould.

“I got that wrong!

“The support I received from other Firefighters was really encouraging.

“We are a real mix of individuals with completely different backgrounds and skills.

“Everyone is welcome here."

Fellow Market Harborough firefighter Rob Seaton said: "As someone who grew up in Market Harborough, I'm really proud to be part of an amazing team doing our bit to keep the community safe.”