LANCASHIRE'S top fire official has recommend axing engines at Accrington, Great Harwood and Haslingden, prompting outrage from fire crew and community leaders.

But Chief Fire Officer Peter Holland has suggested a stay of execution for engines at Rawtenstall, Padiham, Barnoldswick and Earby.

Mr Holland's comments form part of the review looking at providing a better level of service across the county.

Current proposals would see Hyndburn's fire engine coverage halved, with retained engines disappea-ring from the area's three main stations.

Haslingden station would be closed. These plans have been described as having the least impact' on service provision. MP Greg Pope, whose constituency would be directly affected by the cuts, has already voiced concerns about the proposals in the House of Commons.

He said: "I strongly believe we should keep the retained engines. The fire stations are interdependent, they do not just cover their own area.

"Quite often the Great Harwood engine will be called elsewhere, like Accrington, when its crews are busy."

Mr Pope added: "Most residents understand we need all the engines and want to keep them, so they must continue their campaign to save them. I note what Peter Holland has said and respect his views. But the review is not finished yet and people still have the chance to save their fire services."

Coun Peter Britcliffe, leader of Hyndburn Council, said: "I am horrified that provision for services to this area is to be reduced.

"No one will ever convince me a reduced service will lead to a better service."

He added: "This is more about cost cutting than saving lives. This is good news for parts of the county but very bad news for us."

Firemen are also angered by the proposals. Jack Anderson, watch manager at Great Harwood, said: "If you are working on the factor of activity levels then the retained pump with the least call outs should go.

"Great Harwood's second pump goes out more times than many of those at other stations.

"Strategically it would be best to keep two at each station and cut ones from stations that have three pumps, rather than leaving us with only one engine. If they are talking about having a better service, cutting pumps is not the answer."

In his briefing report Mr Holland said eight of the original cuts had been withdrawn, adding: "Whilst we recommend withdrawal of some of the options, I must stress that any decision lies with the Combined Fire Authority."

The CFA's planning committee will meet on November 30 and a decision will be made on December 18.