Concern over fire cover

AS a national firefighters strike looms East Sussex Fire Brigade has been unable to give reassurance adequate cover will be available for the whole Seahaven strip.

Some 90 per cent of Newhaven's 24 firefighters, who are mostly Fire Brigade Union (FBU) members, will be striking leaving too few to man its two engines.

Two military Green Goddesses in Brighton and pair in Eastbourne will be expected to deal with emergencies along the coastal strip. The vehicles are aged between 30 and 50 years old and have a top speed of 35mph.

However, around 12 non-FBU retained firefighters will be on duty in Seaford, according to the chairman of East Sussex Fire Authority Mike Murphy.

Mr Murphy, who lives in Seaford, said: 'As far as Seaford is concerned the retained firefighters will not be striking. From Seaford's point of view there will not be a lot of difference.'

However, it was unlikely the retained firefighters would deal with emergencies outside their patch.

Mr Murphy said: 'I expect Seaford to be adequately covered if the situation remains as it is at the moment. As the firefighters in Newhaven are all full-time they will be covered by the army.'

He added that he hoped the situation would be resolved without lives being put at risk.

The first firefighters strike in 25 years is due to take place from Tuesday to Thursday (October 29-31).

Further strikes are threatened throughout November and December.

The government stressed this week that it was still important for people to dial 999 as the emergency line would still be operational.

Leaflets with the message Get out, stay out and call 999 will be delivered to four million homes.

People are also urged to attend organised firework displays and not hold bonfire parties in their gardens during the strike.