FIRE service for Crowthorne will be based out of a local college while the new station is being built.

Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) has announced that Wellington College will provide an alternative responding location for Crowthorne's on-call firefighters and fire engine while their station undergoes a complete rebuild.

The move will ensure a swift and effective response is maintained to all emergencies by RBFRS during the rebuild.

The crew is anticipated to be housed in part of the Grounds unit within the College boundary from Easter 2019, with the works due to be completed towards the end of summer 2020.

Councillor Angus Ross, Lead Member for Strategic Asset Management, said: “This relocation is a crucial element of the re-build project as it enables our firefighters to continue to serve their local community, whilst the re-build is underway for a fit-for-purpose station. We are delighted that Wellington College are providing our crew with the facilities to continue to serve the people of Crowthorne and neighbouring towns and villages.

“Historically, people have thought that firefighters respond to fires and that’s it, but the role of the firefighter is much more nowadays, so it is fitting that Crowthorne will be re-built to provide modern facilities for modern firefighters.

“Now, fire stations are rightly seen as being at the heart of local communities, so it is fantastic that we have been able to work with the local community to provide a suitable alternative location in the village for the duration of the work.”

Julian Thomas, Master of Wellington College, commented: “The students and staff at Wellington College are excited about this opportunity to forge new links with the Crowthorne community. Service is important to Wellington; it is part of our DNA. Our students benefit enormously from their regular interactions with members of the local community and we are looking forward to playing our part in helping the Crowthorne firefighters to continue their excellent work.”