The first of Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue's new fire appliances has arrived in the county ready for crews to carry out training.

A fleet of 33 new appliances will be sent out to fire stations over three years, starting this September.

And Grantham Fire Station is scheduled to receive one of the new appliances next year.

County crews will be carrying out training at the Waddington training centre and around county roads to get to know the 18-tonne appliance and the new high-spec equipment on board.

Capable of carrying 1,800 litres of water on board, compared with 1,400 litres on the older appliances, 16 of the appliances will include 'Coldcut Cobra'.

This is an ultra-high pressure system where water travels through walls, meaning firefighters can tackle fires from outside buildings, with reduced water damage inside.

Cllr Nick Worth, portfolio holder for emergency services at Lincolnshire County Council, said: "The new appliances and equipment is a significant investment by the council, and will give the best level of emergency response right across the county.

"The new equipment will also make our firefighters some of the best protected in the country."

The appliances utilise the latest generation of Scania truck chassis, with improved safety, handling and reduced emissions, and the vehicle build has been led by Yorkshire-based specialist manufacturer Angloco.

Chief Fire Officer for Lincolnshire, Les Britzman, said: "As well as being able to carry more water, and 100 litres of foam, the new appliances will carry better rescue equipment for road accidents, the latest generation of lighting and ladders and a whole host of features that will make our response in emergencies even better."