THE new Mayor of Middlesbrough, Ray Mallon, will meet fire officials today to tell them safety is a key target on his agenda.

He will visit Cleveland Fire Brigade Headquarters, in Hartlepool, for talks with chief fire officer John Doyle, executive director Ian Hayton and members of the senior management team.

Mr Mallon, who is responsible for council services for 150,000 residents, is keen to point out the importance of working in partnership, and aims to discuss ways of strengthening relationships within the community.

He said: "I want to stress that the safety of the people of Middlesbrough is one of my key targets and with that in mind, I am meting fire service managers to discuss fire safety for our residents.

"I am also keen to see that the support for the fire service is continued and strengthened."

Mr Hayton said: "Cleveland Fire Brigade is always ready to listen and take on board the views of the communities it serves. Our mission is to work with others to build a safer environment and our vision is to deliver an efficient, responsive, modern service.

"We want to build on the good reputation we have in the community and work towards our goals with the support and confidence of the people we serve.