TWO residents will be joining the team at WGC Fire Station, after completing a tough 14-week training course.

Nigel Atkins, 42, and Shane Bunnage, 25, will become retained firefighters.

Nigel already works as a firefighter at Luton Airport, while Shane works full-time for Welwyn Hatfield Council.

The pair, who honed their skills over three-and-a-half months at the service’s training centre in Stevenage, took part in the traditional pass out parade after completing their training.

The county’s chief fire officer Roy Wilsher said: “All our retained firefighters are highly trained and ready to deal with a range of incidents; responding to emergency calls at a moment’s notice.

“They are an asset to their community and our service and we are proud to have them on board.”

The fire and rescue service is overseen by Hertfordshire County Council.

Cllr Keith Emsall said: “The pass out parade is a very proud moment for our firefighters as it is recognition of the hard work they put into the course.”

To become a retained firefighter you must live or work within four minutes of a fire station with a retained crew, be over 18 and have good all-round fitness.

For more information, click on the link, right, or call 0300 123 4046.