A senior firefighter has challenged the people of a South Ayrshire town to step up and help protect their community.

Troon Community Fire Station is currently on the look-out for retained firefighters.

Retained firefighters (RDS) respond to emergencies via an on-call pager system and often balance their roles with primary employment.

More than 90 percent of Scotland is protected by RDS crews, with many communities reliant on the service.

With Troon one of the areas requiring people to join its RDS ranks, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) Station Commander Derek Davidson is urging people from all walks of life to consider a career as a retained firefighter.

He said: “Retained firefighters provide a critical service to their hometowns and local communities.

“It’s a service for the community by the community and is a great opportunity to give something back to your town.

“It’s also an opportunity to do so while getting paid and learning new and transferrable skills.”

With many people now working out with their home towns, retained recruitment has proven to be a challenge for areas across Scotland.

And, while serving as an RDS firefighter comes with its commitments, SC Davidson is keen to stress it has multiple benefits too.

He said: “Retained recruitment is a challenge throughout the country.

“We’re trying to think outside the box around it, but there’s no doubting it’s a challenge.

“In several areas here in Ayrshire there are fewer large businesses and less employment locally therefore many people work outside the town.”

SC Davidson continued: “People do need to understand the role requires a sizable commitment – that’s something we will stress to anyone who comes along to the open night or enquires.

“But, as many retained firefighters will tell you, being there for your community in an emergency is why people often sign up – the sense of pride you feel in serving your hometown.

“We have retained firefighters from all backgrounds and walks of life.

“Some are self-employed, some are in full time employment and others are wholetime firefighters, who also serve as RDS.

“As long as you are fit enough and want it enough, we will do all in our power to help.”

Anyone based in Troon wishing to find out more about becoming a retained firefighter can visit the town’s fire station on Wednesday, November 27 between 6.30pm and 9.30pm.

Alternatively, keep an eye on our retained firefighter information for current opportunities.