Huntly firefighter at the ready to deliver fire engine to Ukraine

A MEMBER of Huntly's retained firefighter team is poised to go to Ukraine with a charity which sends fire engines, ambulances and other emergency equipment to Eastern European countries.

Crew Commander, Mark Allan, (40) travelled to Ukraine in November with the volunteer run Scottish Emergency Rescue Association (SERA) delivering six fire engines and PPE to two different regions of the country.

The humanitarian organisation was ready to send three units to Moldova but has changed it plans and is now making final preparations to a fourth and the convoy could leave as early as this weekend for Ukraine.

Mark said: "These units were destined for Moldova but they are now being prepared for Ukraine to support the country's efforts. They will be driven out and I have volunteered to be one of the crew to get them there.

"SERA is entirely self funded, they buy the fire engines at sales and make them ready so I would urge anyone who can, to consider donating towards their work. I had hoped that one of the fire engines would come to Huntly so that we could help get it ready but that will have to wait now.

"There is the cost of fuel and flights to get the drivers back and any other equipment that might be needed so donations are needed."

While in Ukraine in November, Mark helped train local firefighters.

He added:"The people were so warm and hospitable - they treated us so well. I can't begin to imagine what it must be like for them now."

To donate to SERA go to www.sera.scot

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