RESCUERS are set to return home to Lancashire this morning after their heroic efforts in earthquake-hit Haiti.

Eight crew members from the county, including Andy Barnes and Mark Southworth from East Lancashire, have been a part of the international search and rescue effort in the aftermath of the earthquake.

They rescued four people from the rubble, including a two-year-old girl dragged to safety by her pigtails.

Chief Fire Officer Peter Holland said: “I am immensely proud of the contribution our rescue teams have made by responding so selflessly and so well to the dreadful tragedy of the Haitian earthquake.

“It is inevitable that now our firefighters are heading home and have the opportunity to reflect on their experiences they will need to come to terms with the immense suffering they have witnessed at first hand, even having known the elation of finding people alive to reunite with their loved ones.

“They have upheld the finest traditions of the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service by the dedication, professionalism, skill and endurance they have demonstrated on this mission.

“I have the utmost respect for them and admiration for what they have done. They are a magnificent testimony to the service and to the men and women who are proud to be their colleagues.”