A RECENT fire in Stockbridge has shown how fine the line is between success and disaster when a blaze broke out in the roof space of the White Hart Inn.

Luckily the retained firefighters were near the station and able to respond quickly.

Within 25 minutes the firefighters had reached the scene, assessed the situation and put out the fire.

But in recent months there have not been enough local firefighters available for emergencies.

Crews from further away have had to be called on to deal with incidents and they take longer to arrive.

Station officer Robin Furness of Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service (HFRS) said: "Time is crucial in these situations.

"The longer it takes to respond, the greater the hold the fire has and the more damage has been done. A few minutes can make all the difference between successfully dealing with a small fire and the potential for a major tragedy."

Not enough men and women are volunteering to become retained firefighters in Stock-bridge and even the modern appliances and equipment provided throughout Hampshire are useless without the crews to operate them.

Dave Lock, assistant divisional officer, said: "It would be a great pity if we had to consider closing Stockbridge Fire Station because local people were not prepared to come forward."

The fire service is urging men and women aged between 18 and 40 who are committed to their community to consider becoming retained firefighters.

Full training will be provided - including first aid. Anyone interested in becoming a retained firefighter can call in to Stockbridge Fire Station in the High Street and talk with existing firefighters who meet there every Monday evening for training.

Alternatively phone Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service on 02380 617238.