A CHRONIC shortage of ‘on call’ firefighters is hampering the service in rural areas of Hampshire.

Some stations, including Stockbridge, are unavailable for action in office hours most days because there may only be one firefighter available instead of the minimum of four.

The fire service’s ability to respond as fast as possible in the country areas is being undermined by the dearth of crews.

Vince Barnes is the new retained support manager responsible for the part-time crews at Romsey, Winchester, Sutton Scotney, Andover and Stockbridge.

He is working to boost recruitment: “It is not unusual for them to be unavailable, off road, during the day. It is probably worse now than ever,” he said.

One problem is the changing nature of villages. A generation ago many people lived and worked locally, including on farms. Today the vast majority of villagers are retired or commute to jobs in towns and cities.

Mr Barnes said: “Companies are short staffed and cannot afford to release people. I am getting out and about talking to as many people as I can, going to schools talking to mums and dads.”

He has recently met the John Lewis estate manager at Leckford and is hopeful of attracting some new recruits.

“It is a chance to learn extra skills and get high-quality training as good as for full-time firemen.”

As well as being on call there is the need for one evening training a week for three hours.

Anyone interested in finding out more can call 02380 644000. They can also apply through newjob.org