FILTON FIREFIGHTERS IN THE GAMBIA

Firefighters forge stronger links with The Gambia

Thanks to the support of Filton and other Fire Stations in the Bristol area the tiny West African country has an expanding fire service network that has brought numerous social and economic benefits to the population.  Fire service links between the two countries were established in 1989 when Filton Fire Station Manager, Dave Hutchings - then Avon's Chief Fire Officer - was on holiday in The Gambia.  Having introduced himself to fireman in the capital, Banjul, he was summoned from his hotel bed one night to advise at the scene of a major road accident.  Because of poor equipment and lack of training six members of the same family unfortunately died.  When he returned to the UK, David began setting up The Gambia and Avon Fire Services in Partnership Charitable Trust.  Firefights from Filton and Avon have since made numerous trips to The Gambia to assist with training and sent dozens of redundant fire engines which are now seeing a new lease of life across the country.  David will be making his 30th trip to The Gambia in October.  Filton Crew Manager Scott Bates and Firefighter Kelvin Rigney will also be going to the Gambia next spring with colleagues from the Avon service to deliver a package of training.  Early next year two Senior Fire Officers from Banjul will come to Filton Airport and the International Fire Training Centre at Teeside Airport for an extensive six weeks course.

Filton and Avon have made a huge difference in The Gambia helping to create 1,000 firefighting jobs and setting up twelve new fire stations which are also centres for health care in remote communities.

For more information go to www.gafsip.org