FIREFIGHTERS were sent to Letchworth GC town centre on Friday to tackle a series of blazes.

Crew from the Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue demonstrated how to put out a chip pan fire in Leys Square as part of a Community Reassurance Event open to the public.

CC the fire dog was also on hand to display his sniffing skills in seeking out flammable materials, on a day that proved just as hot weather-wise.

The event was run by the North Herts Community Safety Partnership, with advice given by organisations including North Herts District Council (NHDC), Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, Hertfordshire Constabulary, North Herts Crime Prevention Panel, North Hertfordshire Homes, Howard Cottage Housing Association, Trading Standards and Letchworth GC Town Centre Partnership.

Andy Godman, NHDC’s head of housing and public protection, said: “Thank you to everyone who made the event such a great success and to all of the members of the Community Safety Partnership for taking part. It is encouraging that so many residents were able to come along, speak to experts in their field and take away useful information on how they can keep their neighbourhood clean, green and safe.”

Roy Wilsher, Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service’s chief fire officer, added: “Community events such as this are a fantastic opportunity for residents to meet fire safety experts and pick up essential hints and tips to keep their communities safe.”