Berkshire’s Bravest Take Top Spot in National Firefighting Showdown!
Firefighters from Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service flexed their rescue skills this weekend at a high-stakes UK competition. The challenge? Vehicle extrication – freeing trapped victims from wrecked cars.
Battle of the Fire Brigades
The six-strong Berkshire crew headed to South Wales on May 23 to face off against eight other top fire teams from across the UK. Hosted by South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, the UK Rescue Organisation (UKRO) regional event put every team through a tough two-car rescue scenario, timed at just 20 minutes.
Precision Under Pressure
Armed with standard rescue gear, the crews had to extract a single casualty swiftly and safely, all under the watchful eyes of expert assessors. UKRO chairman Assistant Chief Fire Officer Steve Apter praised the event:
“I would like to congratulate all of the firefighters who took part in the competition and I would like to thank South Wales Fire and Rescue Service for hosting such a fantastic event. The skills and professionalism on show were outstanding, and it was brilliant to see all teams recognised at the awards ceremony.”
Berkshire’s Dedication Wins Gold
The Berkshire team’s dedication and professionalism saw them clinch the top prize. Close behind were Hampshire Fire and Rescue in second place, with Oxfordshire grabbing third.
Steve Apter added, “It’s down to their professionalism, dedication and commitment to training, to be the best at what they do.”
