WOMEN, members of the LGBT community and ethnic minority groups are being encouraged to find out about a career as a firefighter.

County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) is running a series of special events to allow people to see what it takes to join up.

Each of the five, three-hour information sessions will be held at a different CDDFRS fire station where attendees can learn about the selection process, tour the station and find out more about fitness and what the job requires.

Men and women firefighters will be on hand to talk to prospective crew members.

Sarah Nattrass, area manager for CDDFRS, said: “These positive action events are specially designed to appeal to groups of people who we find are under-represented in CDDFRS, as well as in fire services nationally.

It is important that our service is representative of the communities that we serve.

“Of course we would not turn anyone away from any of the events if they would like to find out more about recruitment.

"However, men who are keen to find out more about future recruitment are advised to contact their local fire station and arrange a discussion at their convenience.”

The sessions will take place at Durham Fire Station on December 12 from 1pm to 4pm, at Consett Fire Station on December 13 from 9.30am to 12.30pm, at Bishop Auckland Fire Station on December 14 from 9.30am to 12.30pm, at Darlington Fire Station on December 15 from 1pm to 4pm and at Peterlee Fire Station on December 17 from 9am to midday.

For more information call 0191-3755583 or email #Humanresources@ddfire.gov.uk