FIREFIGHTERS in East Lancashire had their busiest Christmas on record - though they dealt with just six fires.

The figures were released as wind-battered East Lancashire braced itself for more gales in the lead-up to New Year.

In 24 hours across the county from teatime on Christmas Eve Lancashire Fire Service dealt with 1,044 calls - a staggering 1,000 per cent increase on the previous year.

Most emergencies were caused by storms and high winds.

Firefighters tackled just six blazes and dealt with only one road traffic accident.

Fire service press officer John Taylor said: "It was one of our busiest times on record ever. Last year during the same period we had just 104 incidents.

"But at the same time we're pleased people appear to have taken in the safety message with only six calls about fires. That's good news for us."

Lancashire chief fire officer Gordon Russel said: "The way such a vast number of calls was dealt with is a tribute to all our fire and control room staff."

The Weather is set to remain unsettled and localised gales are expected over the next few days.

Manchester Weather Centre forecaster John Mastin said: "The wind will increase steadily through today and by the end of the afternoon there will be gale force winds on exposed coastal and hill areas.

"There will be wind speeds of around 30 to 35mph and gusts of 50 or 60mph."

Norweb has announced arrangements for customers to claim payment for a loss of electricity over Christmas.

Anyone who lost power for more than 24 hours can make a claim but only for loss of electricity and not damage to appliances or food which the firm says should be claimed against household insurance.

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