Lieutenant Governor Sir Richard Gozney took part in a training exercise during a visit to Douglas fire station this week.

Sir Richard was cut free from a vehicle as part of a demonstration of the techniques and equipment used to help people involved in road traffic collisions.

Senior officers and members of Green Watch also provided an overview of the role of a modern firefighter and conducted a guided tour of the fire station.

The Lieutenant Governor was accompanied by Home Affairs Minister Bill Malarkey MHK and Juan Turner MLC, the politician with responsibility for the fire and rescue service.

Sir Richard said: ’It was fascinating to gain an insight into the range of duties performed by the island’s firefighters. You hope you never need to call on them in real life, but in an emergency I think the people of the island can count on the support of a highly professional and dedicated team.’