The 'biggest and most prestigious' rescue competition is coming to Hampshire next week. 

The United Kingdom Rescue Organisation (UKRO) "Festival of Rescue" will see expert teams of firefighters from 28 UK fire services and three international teams descend on Eastleigh. 

They will test their skills across a variety of challenging scenarios including vehicle extrication, rope rescue from height, water rescue, and trauma care.

There will also be a fire cadets’ challenge and dog demonstration.

Members of the public walking along the River Itchen near Eastleigh Rugby Club will be able to watch all the action, learning more about the skills and equipment used and cheering on the teams taking part.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service chief fire officer, Neil Odin, said: "Hosting the UKRO Festival of Rescue is a huge honour and we look forward to welcoming our colleagues.

"Rescue and ‘special service’ calls are now making up a bigger proportion of the total incidents we respond to and UKRO offers a great way for professionals to learn and practise their skills and techniques for these types of incidents, helping us to improve the way that we respond to our communities.

"It is also a great opportunity for the public to see firefighters in action in a safe environment and find out more about what the role involves and to chat with us about staying safe."

The event is also coming to Gunwharf Quays and Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and will take place on September 27 and 28.

Dan Quin, vice-chair of the United Kingdom Rescue Organisation, said: "I am absolutely delighted to be here in Portsmouth to host this year’s Festival of Rescue with the brilliant Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service.

"The United Kingdom Rescue Organisation is at the forefront of advancing professional rescue - supporting and enabling professional rescuers to be the best they can be to protect people.

"These events aren’t just a brilliant opportunity to compete and catch up with peers that we otherwise may not be able to, but they are also a valuable learning and development opportunity – showcasing the best skills and techniques from across the country."

Further information can be found at hantsfire.gov.uk/ukro2024.