FIRE engines will be getting a state-of-the-art upgrade to improve rescue operations across the Thames Valley.

Two new fire engines will be deployed at Wokingham and Windsor Fire Stations on Wednesday, August 14.

The upgraded trucks will be unveiled at an official handing-over of the keys, outside Wokingham Town Hall to each crew by Councillor Angus Ross, Royal Berkshire Fire Authorities lead member for strategic assets.

Crew members will get to enjoy the new state-of-the-art fire engines, which include a large hose reels to enable water to be pumped out more quickly.

As well as this, battery powered rescue equipment for use at road traffic incidents which is easier to deploy and reduces time to rescue people who are trapped or injured.

Improved mobile lighting for better visibility at the scene of an incident, better seating areas for crews.

Cllr Ross said: “Following the success of the new fire engines at Newbury Fire Station last year, and four other stations prior to that, I am delighted that Windsor and Wokingham Fire Stations are next in line for these updated engines, which I am sure will benefit their local communities for many years to come.

“I would like to thank our officer team, together with our colleagues at Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service and Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, for developing a state of the art specification which has enabled the incorporation of many new features to improve the capabilities for our firefighters and to build in the opportunity for greater collaboration between services.

"This has enabled us to better equip our staff and further improve the service we offer to our communities across Royal Berkshire.”

The new fire engines have been built by Emergency One UK Ltd on Volvo FL 42R chassis and are part of Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Services programme to modernise its older vehicles to new, better equipped fire engines.