Fire engine visits Chatterbox

FIRE officers from The Black Watch Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue arrived at Saint James’ Chatterbox on Tuesday to the amazement of youngsters.

The youngsters at Saint James’ Chatterbox thought they were coming to play and take part in their weekly craft activities.

They never guessed for one minute that the craft activity – making a red fire engine, would result in one turning up outside the door.

Youngsters clambered into the fire engine supervised by fire officers and parents.

They tried on helmets and held hose pipes.

Some children were a little wary of climbing into the engine but it was short lived.

Even the Rector Fr John donned a jacket and helmet.

Whilst youngsters were having a whale of a time, fire officers took the opportunity to point out to parents the importance of how a smoke detector, fitted into homes can help save lives in the event of a fire occurring.

Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue are happy to fit one free of charge.

Cabinet Member for Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue and local Councillor Dave Norman MBE said: “As well as attending to fires and keeping people safe, our fire officers play a great part in educating our youngsters by visiting playgroups and schools in the county. I’m really pleased that the children and their parents at Chatterbox enjoyed this morning’s activity. Keeping people safe in their homes is important to us. “

Revd Canon Fr. John Ward commented: “We owe the Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue officers a great debt of gratitude for all they do in tackling and trying to prevent fires in this county. It was lovely to see the youngsters enjoying themselves this morning and we greatly appreciate the time given up by the officers."