New recruits have been inducted into a fire and rescue service after 15 weeks of training.

Firefighters from Borehamwood, Potters Bar, Harpenden and other Hertfordshire towns are to be posted in Stevenage, Hemel Hempstead, Royston, Cheshunt and Welwyn Garden City after passing their 15 weeks of basic training at Longfield Training Centre in Stevenage.

Chief Fire Officer Darryl Keen welcomed 20 trainees into their roles in front of their family and friends.

He said: "They stand at the beginning of a unique career which offers them an exceptional range of opportunities and experiences.

"They have worked extremely hard to achieve the high standards we expect from our firefighters and complete this challenging course.

"They will now play a key role in their stations across the county to help keep the people of Hertfordshire safe."

The course covered subjects such as breathing apparatus, fire behaviour and first aid and trauma care, which they will continue to develop their skills.

Colin Woodward, who helps lead for Herts County Council for community safety, said: "These new recruits should be very proud of themselves for completing this challenging training, proving their dedication.

"Each one of them has gained an essential grounding in the diverse range of skills needed to be an effective firefighter. "I’m sure they will make a great contribution to their stations and the local communities they serve."

Along with these recruits, six phone operators are joining the service control centre in Stevenage to answer 999 calls.