FACTORY workers have dug deep into their pockets to buy firefighters a community fire safety van.

Members of a staff charity group at the Black & Decker plant in Spennymoor raised £8,670 to buy the Vauxhall Corsa van for County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service.

Yesterday, firefighters were presented with the vehicle and thanked the staff by going along to the power tool plant to exhibit a fire engine and 26-tonne aerial ladder platform.

Employees in the charity group donate money from their weekly pay packets to raise money for nominated local causes.

They decided they wanted to help the fire service in its efforts to reduce fire injuries through its community work, and approached the brigade to find out what was needed.

Station Officer Dave Turnbull said he was delighted when the group offered to buy the van, which will be invaluable for its work in the community.

It will be used by community safety officer Ian Cochburn to tour schools and the community in general, to educate people about the dangers and sources of domestic fires.

He said: "This is an incredible piece of generosity from the employees of Black & Decker.

"Their money will be put to very good use in this vehicle, which will support our work to cut the number of fires, fire injuries and hoax calls in the area.''

Alan Finn, chairman of the charity group, said: "The Employee Charity Group uses its money to buy equipment that helps individuals and communities across the region enjoy better lives.

"We are delighted to be able to present this vehicle to the fire brigade, as it will help them save lives and reduce injuries in our community for many years to come.''