WEST Midlands firefighters who were deployed to Morocco to help with the search and rescue mission in the wake of a devastating earthquake have now returned to the UK.

Seven members of West Midlands Fire Service were among some 60 fire and rescue service personnel deployed after the offer of help from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office was accepted by Morocco on Sunday September 10.

The UK International Search and Rescue (UK ISAR) team landed at Gatwick Airport at around 3pm on Tuesday (September 19) and they were welcomed back by West Midlands Fire Service’s chief fire officer Wayne Brown at Bickenhill Fire Station.

Halesowen News: Firefighters from West Midlands Fire Service, who are part of the UK ISAR team, with chief fire officer Wayne Brown on arrival back in the UK following deployment to Morocco Firefighters from West Midlands Fire Service, who are part of the UK ISAR team, with chief fire officer Wayne Brown on arrival back in the UK following deployment to Morocco (Image: West Midlands Fire Service)

During the deployment, the team conducted several missions including searches in remote areas across the Atlas Mountains, reporting back humanitarian needs assessments and conducting aerial searches.

Volunteers also administered first aid to those in need.

The UK ISAR Incident Room was established at West Midlands Fire Service’s HQ and was staffed 24/7 by non-deployed UK ISAR team members.

Chief fire officer Wayne Brown said: “We are proud to have once again answered the call for help after the devastating earthquake in Morocco.

“Firefighters and staff from WMFS were part of the 60-strong team that was deployed, undertaking a number of tasks to support Moroccan agencies.

“Once again, we were taken aback by the kindness shown to our volunteers, who acted professionally and diligently in what was our third deployment this year, after we supported missions in Turkey and Malawi.

“Our thanks also go to those running the incident room at our Headquarters, who provided vital logistical and support work.

“As is the case after all UK ISAR deployments, the welfare of all involved in the operation is paramount, and everyone will receive the necessary mental and physical support in the aftermath of the deployment.”