TWO Hampshire fire stations have opened gardens where firefighters can sit and reflect to reduce the impact of work on their wellbeing.

The gardens are at Havant and Redbridge. The Havant garden was created by firefighters and staff at smoke alarm maker Apollo Fire Detectors Ltd.

The company is funding a Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service course called A Better Me to improve the health and confidence of 11 and 12 year olds.

Havant crew manager Simon Morford said: “The entire crew at Havant Fire Station are so grateful for Apollo’s sponsorship of our A Better Me course. Working together will mean we can support these young people.”

Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service’s deputy chief fire officer Steve Apter said: “The outstanding work that has gone into designing, building and maintaining these tranquil spaces shows the wellbeing of our staff really is at the heart of everything we do.”