LEYLAND'S threatened firemen face notices of redundancy in the new year.

The Home Office last month instructed Lancashire Combined Fire Authority to carry out further consultation before axing three fire crews, including part time staff in Leyland.

Their consultation will end on December 2 and the county council is expected to announce their decision on December 13. The Home Office will then either accept or reject that decision within a week.

At a public meeting last week South Ribble councillor Mark Alcock, who is one of many councillors who have tried to save the service, was told the fire authority wants to issue redundancy notices on January 1, 2000.

He said: "That would mean their 90 days redundancy period would be up before the new financial year, which is ideal for the fire authority.

"But what a horrible way to treat these men, who have given us so much service.

"I appreciate they need to make savings, but perhaps they should look at cutting the £300,000 County Hall canteen subsidy before cutting fire cover."

The firemen themselves say the decision was no surprise.

Despite a 15,000 signature petition, the fire authority pushed ahead with the plans to cut the fire cover, claiming it would have a 'minimal impact' on local areas.

Sub Officer Peter Singleton said: "The way we have been treated is scandalous.

"We have continued to serve with commitment and enthusiasm but this is a massive kick in the teeth. Money has to be saved and it is more than likely that we will be axed.

"We have been treated so badly."

A spokesman for the authority confirmed that consultations had to be submitted by December 2.

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