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The six-strong team, which includes a paramedic from North East Ambulance Service, placed seventh out of 30 teams. Team captain Andy Pogson won third place in the officer in charge category and the technical tool operators also placed third.
The competition, which attracted firefighters from across the globe, took place from 18 to 20 October at the Excel Arena, an Olympic venue in London.
Judges marked officers on their technical skill in timed exercises to remove casualties from car crash scenarios set up to replicate real road accidents.
Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service consistently performs well in regional, national and international extrication championships. This is the second time that the team has represented the UK in the World Rescue Extrication Championships; in 2009 they competed internationally after being crowned UK Rescue Extrication Champions.
Watch manager Andy Pogson said: “We all worked well together in preparation for the competition and during the event itself. Taking part in these competitions is an ideal way to train and learn new techniques so we are ready for the real rescues we carry out as part of fire service roles.”
Alex Bennett, chief fire officer for Northumberland Fire and Rescue, said: “This is an outstanding achievement by a group of very dedicated officers. Their success reflects the training that is given to all firefighters in Northumberland to equip them with the skills to act with speed and care to save lives on Northumberland’s roads.”
Councillor Anita Romer, executive member for public protection at Northumberland County Council said: “This team consistently excels in tests of skill, speed and team work. They embody the professionalism of Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service as a whole and are to be congratulated for their hard work.”
Team members are:
Watch manager Andy Pogson - Prudhoe
Firefighter Richard Fairbairn – Hexham
Firefighter Gary Hall – West Hartford
Firefighter Steve Wight – West Hartford
Firefighter Steve Wickham – West Hartford
Donna Hay – North East Ambulance Service
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