County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service has been named the fastest predominantly rural fire service in the UK, following a recent inspection.
Firefighters were praised for the way they respond to fires and emergencies as the service was rated as "good" in an independent review by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS).
The report, which was published on Friday, January 20, looked at how effectively and efficiently the service prevents and protects the public from, and responds to, fires and other emergencies. It also examined how well the service looks after its people with the fire service rated “good” in all three areas.