A TEAM of North-East firefighters scooped second place in a national competition.

The Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service crew, from Barnard Castle Fire Station, won second place in the National Breathing Apparatus Competition last week.

Their national success followed a winning performance at the fire service’s internal competition for the second year running.

The Barnard Castle crew were among 19 teams from fire services across the country competing in the national event, at the Fire Service College, in Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire.

Competitors were asked to respond to a simulated incident during which they were assessed on command and control procedures and breathing apparatus search and rescue techniques involving the rescue of several casualties under timed conditions.

They were also judged on breathing apparatus entry control procedures and fire ground support, including casualty care and the provision of equipment.

Adam Hall, district manager for Barnard Castle Fire Station, said: “To achieve second place in only their second year of taking part in the competition is an excellent result, which is down to the commitment of the individuals themselves and the support of the service.”