FIREFIGHTERS might be more used to getting hot under the collar while at work but thanks to the launch of a new rescue boat they can now cool their heels too.

Crews at Leigh fire station, in Mountdale Gardens, have been trained in both a range of water rescue techniques as well as how to handle powerboats.

The four-metre-long craft, which is the first of its kind in the county, will be used for freshwater and coastal flooding and also inland water rescues.

Station Officer Simon Dedman, Leigh Station Commander, said: “Everyone at the station has really thrown themselves into this project and it is thanks to their enthusiasm that this has come to fruition so quickly.

“We are now all looking forward to putting our skills and equipment to good use throughout the county.”

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