Members of the London 2012 Olympics Inspire team experienced basic firefighting and rescue skills at the West Midlands Fire Service Academy in Birmingham June, 28. Following the presentation of the London 2012 Inspire award to the West Midlands Fire Service, the Olympic Inspire team, spent a day sampling firefighter training during part of a team building event, held in partnership with the West Midlands Fire Service.

Saleha Williams Head of London 2012 Inspire Programme said: "We are delighted to award the London 2012 Inspire mark to the West Midlands Fire Service and are very excited to have the opportunity to see how real firefighters are trained. The London 2012 Inspire programme recognises exceptional inspirational community projects, but doing this training shows us just how inspirational and exceptional our firefighters are on a daily basis."

Vij Randeniya, Chief Fire Officer said: "West Midlands Fire Service is committed to working with our local communities in innovative and creative ways. We are thrilled to receive the Olympic Inspire programme award in recognition of this.

"It is important that the wider public are aware of the demanding and complex world of firefighting and rescue.  This joint team building day will provide the Inspire team with an insight into just some of all that we do" 

Posted:10.44, 7/7/11, rachael.haydon@pavpub.com