FIREFIGHTERS have taken delivery of the region's largest aerial ladder platform.

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service has deployed a Bronto Skylift, capable of reaching heights of 120ft.

The kit is the largest aerial ladder platform in the North-East and one of the largest in the UK, capable of reaching the parapets of all bridges in the service area and helping in rescues at high rise buildings.

Cllr Nick Forbes, vice-chairman of Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Authority, said: “This state of the art vehicle, which can reach the highest buildings and bridges in Tyne and Wear, is an essential piece of kit that will help save lives in the future.”

Assistant Chief Fire Officer Chris Lowther, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, said: “It increases our capabilities when faced with incidents such the damaged shopping centre roof in Newgate Street, Newcastle last week.

"Our firefighters were able to go up in the ALP’s cage to make the roof safe after it was damaged by strong winds.”