Ledbury fire station has two new recruits for the retained service.

They are Thomas Rowberry and Robert Merrick, and both have just completed the brigade's two-week residential training course.

Mr Rowberry works at Tesco's and will be able to provide full cover, both day and night.

He said: "I feel this role will give a sense of pride in being a member of a team which is so essential to the community."

Mr Merrick, who lives in Upton but works at D T Waller, the butchers in The Homend, said: "The training course is quite intense, with a lot to learn in a short time, but it is very enjoyable. I still have a lot to learn, but I am looking forward to putting my training onto action."

The officer in charge of Ledbury station, Sub Officer, Terry Phillips, said he welcomed his two new recruits.

He added: "Tom and Rob are joining a well established team who are called to deal with a large variety of incidents."

He thanked all employers in the Ledbury area who release staff for retained duties.

He added: "Without their continued support it would be very difficult to provide adequate fire cover in the area."