FULL-TIME fire crews could be scrapped on Canvey by October 15, according to firefighters on the ground.

The fire service has refused to confirm the date, but officers based at the fire station, in Long Road, told the Echo full-time crews would be axed following the final night shift on that date.

Retained crews are being brought in to man the island’s fire station as a money-saving measure.

The fire service is having to cut 25 full time firefighters to save £1.4million around Essex – and £10million across the country – over the next four years.

Residents and retired firefighters have spoken out against the plan, fearing there could be delays in retained firefighters getting to the fire station and then getting out to jobs on the island.

Cover would then have to come from as far away as Rayleigh Weir.

Nick Mayes, assistant secretary of the Essex Fire Brigades Union, said there was still a lot of opposition to the move.

He was also angry union representatives had not yet been informed and warned strike action could even be taken to try to stop the changes. He said: “If that is the case we’re extremely disappointed they haven’t told the union reps working on it or the working groups.

“We’re always directed by our membership. At the moment we’re taking action up to, but not including, strike action.

“It’s always possible with direction from our members. It’s always something which could be considered.”

A spokesman for the Essex County Fire and Rescue Service said: “No firm date has been set. October 15 is one of the dates under consideration.”

Canvey is staffed by one retained crew and one full-time crew.

It is believed several members of the new second retained crew, who will replace the current full-time crew, have completed their training and are ready to start work.