Duchess of Northumberland opens Rothbury fire station

Jul 29 2009 by Brian Daniel, The Journal

THE Duchess of Northumberland officially opened a new community fire station yesterday.

The fire service at Rothbury moved to the village’s former ambulance station in Coquet View on May 6.

All staff, engines and equipment made the switch to the new site.

As a community station, Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service is to work in partnership with Sure Start to allow the building to be used by a variety of village groups.

The duchess performed the official opening yesterday alongside Berwick MP Sir Alan Beith as part of a family open afternoon event.

Hosted by the fire service and Sure Start, it was attended by staff and representatives from both, as well as Coun Ian Lindley, Northumberland County Council’s executive member for community safety, and Brian Hesler, chief fire officer for the fire and rescue service.

Visitors sampled children’s games, community safety advice and information about the work of the fire service and Sure Start.

Mr Hesler said: “The open afternoon was a great success and we were delighted to welcome the Duchess of Northumberland and Sir Alan Beith MP to officially open the new fire station.”