Retained Firefighters Union and Local Conservatives Launch Bonfire Night Campaign to Save Fire Station

With Guy Fawkes Night fast approaching, families across Bedworth will be preparing to hold or to attend a bonfire party complete with fireworks. It is a much loved annual British tradition. But could this year be the last time we can safely enjoy the fun here in Bedworth?

That's the question being asked by local retained firefighters, supported by the local Conservative Parliamentary candidate ex-soldier Dan Byles.

Bedworth Fire Station is under threat from controversial proposals by Warwickshire's Chief Fire Officer for a radical shake up of Warwickshire Fire & Rescue Service. The plans, if implemented as they stand, would see seven fire stations close across the county, and around a hundred retained fire fighters lose their positions.

The proposals are out for public consultation, after which County Councillors must decide whether or not to accept them. Public opinion has been running high, and a broad coalition of opposition has evolved that includes both the Fire Brigade Union and the Retained Firefighters' Union, local political parties including local Conservatives, and concerned members of the public.

Supporters of Bedworth Fire Station believe that it would be unsafe to close the station, and are challenging the Chief Fire Officers over his figures for response times and his risk assessment.

Anthony Morgan, the Chair and National Vice President of the Retained Firefighters' Union today said:

"It's heartening to see broad opposition to these proposals.

"It highlights the value rate payers place on their fire station and on the committed fire fighters who provide a cost effective emergency service in Bedworth and throughout Warwickshire"

Supporting Anthony today was Tory candidate Dan Byles, who served in the Army for nine years and was responsible for emergency medical and fire response planning for NATO troops in Bosnia. Dan said:

"I am firmly opposed to any proposals that will lead to the closure of Bedworth Fire Station.

"I've been responsible for emergency response planning when I was a soldier, and I am only too aware of the need for robust emergency response cover.

"And with the Government planning to impose some 14,000 new houses on Nuneaton & Bedworth against the wishes of local people, it is even more important that the emergency services are properly resourced and located to deal with incidents.

"If Bedworth Fire Station closes I believe that the people of Bedworth will be less safe as a result. Are we seeing the last safe Bonfire Night in Bedworth?"

Both Dan and Anthony are also supporting a planned protest march in Warwick next month being organised by Karen Scarrott, an Independent Counciller on Warwick District Council. The event will take place on Sunday 6 December, just two days before the end of the public consultation process.

Protesters will meet at 11.30 am on Sun 6 December at Warwick Racecourse by Hill Close Gardens, Warwick. The March to Shire Hall will start at noon. Anyone wishing to take part in the march can simply turn up, but you can also register your support beforehand at the facebook page by going to:http://ow.ly/xzEI