WORK is under way to build a new fire station in Chagford, the first in Devon for 13 years.

The project coincides with the Devon and Somerset service appealing for new recruits to help run the show.

A traditional ‘cutting the sod’ ceremony to mark the launch of the project was duly performed by Sara Randall Johnson, chairman of the fire authority.

She said after performing the honours: ‘It is very exciting that Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service is delivering a new fire station for Chagford, so I was delighted to participate in the ceremony and to meet those involved, including C G Fry and Son builders.’

She added: ‘A project such as this really is a team effort involving many stages and much effort.

‘Fire stations are important places within our community, so involvement of local people, stakeholders and partners, as well as our service personnel, fire authority members, architect, planners and builder are all vital contributors.

‘In addition, I would particularly like to thank Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service estates team who have been the conductors of this process, guiding the service and the authority to reach this point today.’

She looked forward to seeing the finished product.

‘I hope that all runs smoothly and safely for the builders and look forward to the day when service vehicles are ready to serve local communities from the new fire station in Chagford,’ she said.

The fire service was delighted that developers C G Fry included fire chiefs in part of the new development at Bellacouch Meadow.

After lengthy negotiations an agreement was reached which saw the service provided with a brand new, fit-for-purpose fire station and training facility, all at zero cost to the organisation and taxpayer.

Chagford’s new station will offer flexible contracts providing 42, 63 or 84 hours of weekly cover to prospective on-call firefighters.

Each will have a paid retainer fee plus an hourly rate for training and attendance at incidents. There are opportunities to join the firefighters’ pension and paid annual leave.

Anyone living or working within a five-minute response time of Chagford Fire Station can find out more by attending a drill night on Wednesdays between 7pm and 9pm or call watch manager Mark Shears on 07881 745314.