SALVATION Army leaders in Essex have welcomed a new partnership with Essex County Fire and Rescue Service to support firefighters at large-scale incidents.

The Incident Support Unit (ICU) will be based at Clacton Fire Station where Incident Commanders can request it when crews are needed for an extended time. The Salvation Army volunteers will provide cold food/snacks and hot drinks and handwashing facilities will also be available.

Similar partnerships already operate with other fire and rescue services in the UK.

Major Barrie Sampson is Emergency Services Coordinator for Essex.

He said: "Having worked alongside the emergency services, both in civilian and Salvation Army roles, for many years, I am pleased to have the opportunity to serve Essex Fire and Rescue in this particular way.

"I am also grateful to everybody within the Herts and Essex division who has come forward to volunteer their time to support this particular aspect of our work and we look forward to a long and happy relationship with Essex Fire and Rescue Services."

Major Norman Ord, Divisional Commander, agreed.

He added: "I am delighted that The Salvation Army in Essex has the resources needed to offer support to Essex Fire and Rescue Service personnel as they attend major incidents in the future. I look forward to this ministry developing."

Ryan Ainger, Operational Policy Station Manager at Essex County Fire and Rescue Service said the Salvation Army unit will significantly enhance welfare provisions.

He commented: "As they are providing the service at no cost, we have agreed to cover the vehicle's annual servicing and MOT costs as a token of our appreciation and to help ensure the vehicle is always ready to respond.

"On behalf of our Service, I'd like to thank the Salvation Army for their support, which will make a big difference to our firefighters.