Retained firefighter positions are being put up for grabs at Uppingham and Oakham fire stations.

It is hoped people will consider signing-up for a retained positions, which can pay up to £2,800-a-year, plus call out payments on top.

Those who join will be expected to provide the necessary cover for Rutland's wholetime firefighters.

Uppingham's watch manager Roger Dumford has been a retained firefighter at Uppingham fire station for more than 20 years.

The 49-year-old works full-time as a plant controller at Castle Cement.

Each Wednesday, retained firefighters convene at Uppingham fire station for training, while they provide vital cover for the wholetime crew in Rutland.

Roger says he continues to relish working for the fire service and hopes people will be encouraged to consider enlisted as a retained firefighter.

He said: "The best thing about being in the fire service is the buzz of the job - we provide so many different roles.

"As well as covering emergencies we are dealing with the public all the time, we get involved with schools and community clubs and promote fire safety and general awareness."

In order to qualify to be a retained firefighter you must be over the age of 18, live within five minutes' driving distance of the station to respond to emergencies and have a reasonable level of fitness.

Both men and women are welcome to apply for a position.

Roger added: "It's a demanding role and we will need people that are dedicated and able to provide cover, including at weekends."

Open days are scheduled to take place at Uppingham and Oakham soon but in the meantime if anyone is interested in becoming a retained firefighter, they should head to Uppingham fire station at 6.30pm for an informal chat with Roger.