SHADOW fire minister Lyn Brown MP is visiting Haden Cross Fire Station on Thursday.

During her visit she will learn about West Midlands Fire Service’s commitment to responding to serious incidents within five minutes, and how its 1,322 firefighters undertake a wide range of prevention work in their communities.

Councillor John Edwards, chairman of West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority, said: “I’m very pleased that the shadow fire minister, Lyn Brown, has accepted an invitation to visit West Midlands Fire Service to meet firefighters and other members of staff.

“Her interest in our service stands in sharp contrast to the Government fire minister and her predecessor, who have failed to visit the West Midlands in spite of numerous invitations.

“I’m looking forward to telling Lyn about the impact that Government cuts have had on West Midlands Fire Service." 

He added: "I know that firefighters will be anxious to hear her views on the future of the fire service, and the current dispute over their pensions which the Government have failed to resolve.”