Hampshire's fire service in in search of new wholetime firefighters as their recruitment process is set to begin with a series of open days.

Three stations close to Southampton will welcome hopefuls in to give more information about the roles, get hands-on with firefighter equipment and field their questions about the job.

Residents can find out what it is like to be a firefighter at Cosham Fire Station on February 16, Eastleigh Fire Station on February 22 and St Mary's Fire Station on February 23.

No prior firefighting experience is required as full training is provided.

Hampshire fire warns that booking is 'essential' for these open days, as slots to go down to the stations fill up quickly.

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Hampshire fire said: "We’re searching for people who can combine a passion to protect and help our communities, with the drive to learn and use lifesaving skills.

"One day you’ll be responding to 999 calls and the next you’ll be helping people to understand how to keep themselves and their loved ones safe.

"Having a workforce of different backgrounds, experiences, life skills and approaches helps us to deliver a better service and make our community even safer."

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At open days, hopefuls can also try out practical selection tests which will later be included in the recruitment process.

Ben Allen, Area Manager People and Operation Development, said: “Putting out fires and cutting people out of cars will always be an important part of the job – but we’re also looking for people who can communicate vital safety messages and form positive relationships with the communities we serve.

“We want to make sure that members of all our different communities know what we do, who we are and consider us as a potential employer.

“It really is a fantastic career for anyone, with personal development and training that is second to none and opportunities to specialise into areas such as protection and progress to managing a station and other leadership roles.”