PEOPLE living and working in Yate are being invited to become part-time firefighters.

The town’s fire station is looking to recruit new Retained Duty System (RDS) firefighters.

RDS firefighters use the same fire engines and equipment as their full-time colleagues.

The main difference is that RDS firefighters are on call from their homes or work places, rather than a fire station.

Prospective RDS firefighters must live within must live or work within five minutes travelling distance of their retained station during their hours of declared availability.

Applicants should be at least 18-years-old when their training starts, and be fit enough to pass a physical test and medical examination.

Station Manager Steve Imrie said: “Becoming a retained firefighter is a really worthwhile way to make a positive impact on the place in which you live and work.

“The hours can be very flexible and there is a great sense of team spirit among the RDS firefighters, who are a vital part of the Avon Fire & Rescue Service family.

“RDS firefighters agree to be available for a certain number of hours each week, and also need to attend our weekly training nights every Monday.

“We particularly need people to help provide cover on weekdays between 9 and 5.”

RDS firefighters are paid an annual fee as well as call-out and attendance fees.

Information will be available at a recruitment stand at Yate Shopping Centre on Saturday 26 July from 09.30hrs until 12.00hrs.

To find out more visit: http://www.avonfire.gov.uk/south-gloucestershire-news/60-recruitment/retained