CHESHIRE firefighters and equipment are on their way to Ukraine.

The county's fire and rescue service has donated three fire engines and a midi fire engine as part of the largest UK fire and rescue convoy yet.

They are being taken over by a team of 12 firefighters who have volunteered to make the seven-day round trip to the Polish State Fire Service, whose staff will then transfer the convoy on to Ukraine.

Cheshire’s chief fire officer Alex Waller said: “We are proud to be able to provide more aid to support Ukrainian firefighters, they need equipment and vehicles so they can serve communities and save lives.

“Fire stations across Ukraine have lost much of their equipment during the ongoing hostilities so being able to help in some small way is vital.

“We also want to let our Ukrainian colleagues know that they are not alone.

“Our thoughts remain with all of them who are protecting their communities in the most difficult of circumstances, and with those who have lost their lives, and their families, in the line of duty.”

Northwich Guardian: Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service has donated four vehicles to the war effort in UkraineCheshire Fire and Rescue Service has donated four vehicles to the war effort in Ukraine (Image: CFRS)

In total, 33 fire and rescue vehicles have been donated by UK fire and rescue services, including 20 fire engines, eight incident command units, one aerial ladder platform, and one 4x4 vehicle.

These vehicles are carrying more than 2,800 pieces of equipment, such as ladders, breathing apparatus sets, boats, and rescue equipment.

The Cheshire firefighters make up a team of 100 volunteers, drawn from various fire services across the country.

The doors of all of the fire engines donated by Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service bear the service’s logo with the words ‘Supporting Ukraine’.

Inside the drivers’ cabs are stickers which read: “In solidarity and support of the people of Ukraine, from Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service.”

Northwich Guardian: The convoy is on its way to PolandThe convoy is on its way to Poland (Image: CFRS)

The donated items are no longer in operational use as Cheshire Fire Authority looks to continually invest in new vehicles and equipment.  

Chairman of Cheshire Fire Authority, Cllr Stef Nelson, said: “We are only too pleased to be able to help our colleagues in Ukraine during what is truly a difficult time.

“Vehicles and equipment that is no longer in operational use will help support Ukrainian firefighters who are protecting their communities.

“On behalf of Cheshire Fire Authority I would like to send the people of Ukraine our very best wishes.”