Mum's the word for firefighters!

Fire chiefs are hoping to attract more women into the world of retained firefighting in a bid to help increase day-time cover provided by full-time crews across East Lancashire.

Currently, retained fire crews are based at Clitheroe, Great Harwood, Accrington, Bacup and Haslingden -- mainly men who often work outside the 'three minute response' zone during the day, but are on call at nights and on weekends.

John Taylor, media manager for Lancashire Fire and Rescue, said: "Our aim is to provide round-the-clock cover,but this means recruiting people from within a close area to the stations because they have to respond very quickly.

"We hope to appeal to mothers who might be around during the day who would otherwise not think firefighting is something they could do, and we think this is a unique initiative."

In areas like Clitheroe and Great Harwood, the retained fire crews are often on the scene before full-time crews.

Mr Taylor added: "There is every chance mums becoming retained firefighters will find themselves saving lives. There is a shortage of retained personnel to provide cover.

"But it isn't exclusively mothers: we would like to hear from anyone."

At Clitheroe Fire Station, officer Dave McGrath said the number of active retained firefighters had dropped to a 'worrying' level.

He said: "The role is both demanding and challenging, but it is also extremely satisfying.

"We need more men and women from the local community to come forward."

A spokesman for the Fire Brigade Union said: "Various employers use different methods to attract more retained firefighters. We're pleased to see this initiative."

Would-be firefighters need to be aged between 18 and 55 with a good level of fitness. They receive the same training as full-time firefighters.

Two recruitment evenings are planned at Clitheroe Fire Station, on Monday, June 21 and Monday , June 28 from 6.30pm to 9pm at the fire station off Chatburn Road. Call 0772 862545 for details.