A convoy of North West firefighters have set off to deliver supplies to the Ukraine border
A large convoy of firefighters from three North West fire services have set off on a journey to deliver supplies to the Ukraine border.
With the devastating conflict in Ukraine continuing to rise, volunteers from Greater Manchester, Merseyside, and Lancashire fire services have sent vehicles out on a trip across Europe, together with members of the Manchester Ukrainian community, to deliver firefighting materials to the Ukraine and Poland border.
Two fire engines and a hydraulic platform, which are no longer in use, are being donated to help Ukrainian firefighters.
GMFRS’ Chief Fire Officer says this is “the fire service at its best”.
These donations from the North West-based fire services form part of a wider UK donation of supplies, which include 18 fire engines, thermal imaging cameras for finding victims, generators, lighting, hoses, rescue equipment, and PPE.
A convoy of 22 vehicles and two lorries of equipment are now on their way to Poland.
The equipment will be received by the Polish State Fire Service, and given to Ukraine to support those on the front line, according to ITV Granada.
Read more: Manchester firefighters’ car wash event raises over £32,000 to support the people of Ukraine
Speaking ahead of the convoy setting off, Dave Russel – Chief Fire Officer at GMFRS – said: “The devastating scenes in Ukraine have moved everyone across GMFRS and the fire service family, and I’ve been overwhelmed by the offers of support from colleagues who want to do all they can to support the people of Ukraine.
“I’m immensely proud of our involvement in this national drive to support our fellow firefighters on the frontline.
“I want to thank everyone who has worked hard to coordinate this response, whether gathering the equipment, coordinating the logistics or volunteering to be part of the convoy.
“This is the fire service at its best.”
Featured Image – GMFRS