The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) is investing £1.2 million to boost firefighter training facilities in the Northern Isles.

The government funding will see a new hot fire training unit developed at Kirkwall Airport, including teaching rooms, a canteen, offices and changing facilities.

In addition, a new unit will be built to teach firefighters how to avoid becoming entangled in wires while negotiating enclosed spaces in challenging conditions.

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The £1.2m fund has been welcomed by Orkney Islands Council.

Cllr Andrew Drever said: "I welcome this funding commitment as it will provide much needed support for our Mainland and Isles fire stations.

"Firefighters will be able to undertake much of their required training within Orkney instead of having to travel south. This will avoid the inconvenience of prolonged absence from their day-to-day employment and family life.

"I look forward to seeing firefighters undertaking training using the new facilities – ensuring their stations have the right skills mix in place to tackle fires in their local communities."

(LM/MH)