The need for part-time recruits, who live locally and are prepared to work ‘on call’ from their home or work, has sparked Hampshire Fire and Rescue’s latest campaign from Monday, July 21 to Sunday, July 27.

Retained firefighters from Grayshott and Liphook are being sought as well.

East Hampshire group manager Dave Lock said: “We urgently need more firefighters in this area.

“If we cannot recruit sufficient people, there will be times when fire engines will not be available to respond to emergencies due to crewing shortages.

“This would cause a delay in our attendance and ultimately this could cost lives.”

Retained firefighters need to live or work within four or five minutes journey from the station and must attend training sessions called ‘drill nights’ one night per week. In addition to responding to 999 calls, the role requires working as part of a community safety team which advise and assist residents on how to prevent fires.

Mr Lock said: “Being on call means you carry out your normal daily routines either at home or at work and when required are paged to respond to the station.

“The amount of time you have to be on call is negotiable balancing our needs with yours and your employers if responding from work and this can be variable on a day to day basis.”

Mr Lock added the job was equally suitable for men or women.

Potential recruits from Grayshott could also live and work over the border in Surrey.

Residents interested in the role are invited to drop by either Bordon, Grayshott or Liphook fire stations between 7pm and 9pm on any Thursday.

Women are invited to visit Grayshott fire station on Saturday, July 26 between 10am and 2pm, when they can speak to a female firefighter about life in the service.

For more information call 023 8062 6772 or Dave Lock on 01420 544592.