Convoy of firefighters set off to deliver aid to Ukraine
They are set to arrive at the Polish border tomorrow
Last updated 18th Mar 2022
Dozens of firefighters from across North West England have set off to deliver aid to Ukraine.
Fifteen fire engines and two lorries full of supplies have left Leigh community fire station this morning.
Crews from Lancashire, Merseyside and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue service will meet up with other firefighters from across the country this evening.
The convoy will deliver more than 5,000 items of fire and rescue equipment and PPE after a fundraising campaign by UK charity Fire Aid and the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC).
Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue service is also donating a hydraulic platform to help with rescue efforts in Ukraine.
Eighteen fire engines, thermal imaging cameras for finding victims, generators, lighting, hoses, rescue equipment, and thousands of sets of PPE are among the items being donated.
Every fire service across the UK has stepped in to support these efforts.
Chief Fire Officer Dave Russel 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.”