NORTH Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service is recruiting new whole-time firefighters for the first time in ten years.

The service is launching an awareness campaign this week before the application window opens on the July 1.

Chief Fire Officer Andrew Brodie said: “We constantly recruit on-call firefighters.

"Over recent years some of those, along with transferring firefighters from other services, have joined as whole-time firefighters.

"It’s been ten years since we last welcomed applications from the public for whole-time firefighters.

“The role of a modern day firefighter is very varied, it’s much more than just attending emergency incidents.

"It’s also about educating communities about safety, engaging with people, and delivering activities and events.

"We need people who are caring, compassionate and creative, who enjoy working as part of a team and who want to make a truly positive difference to people."

Officer Brodie added that the service wants to be more diverse so is particularly interested in groups who are currently under-represented within the service.

Julia Mulligan, North Yorkshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, said: “Despite the huge financial pressure we face, we are committed to developing and improving North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service. I hope this shows that determination in action."