Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service has announced its next recruitment drive for full-time firefighters.

They said: "We are aiming to attract people from a range of backgrounds to build a diverse and inclusive fire service, so would encourage anyone interested to find out more."

Although the drive follows one of the busiest summers ever for the service, it is actually the result of a number of retirements.

Applications open on 28 September and close on 11 October with 16 positions available.

Deputy Chief Fire Officer Michelle Hickmott, who joined the fire and rescue service 19 years ago, said: "The role of a firefighter has been in the public eye more so than ever this summer and although fighting fires is what most people see, there is so much more to the role than just emergency response.

"Visiting vulnerable people in their homes, attending community events, helping protect businesses through fire safety and educating school children take up a large proportion of our firefighters time, along with training and exercising for when our communities need us most.

"From a career perspective all new recruits will complete an apprenticeship, and development is encouraged and supported for those who wish to progress into leadership positions or further develop their skills in specialist areas."

Firefighter Thea Millward who joined the fire service during a recruitment drive two years ago said: "It was a childhood dream of mine to become a firefighter.

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"In this role, I've got to meet and work with incredible people from all different backgrounds, and I love engaging with the community through initiatives like home fire safety visits and school visits which are really rewarding.

"Being a firefighter means that every day is different, you're always learning and pushing yourself to strive for excellence."

Click here to find out more.