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| 22/08/2008 |
UNISON'S Unsung Fire Service Support Staff Compete in World Firefighters Games in Liverpool |
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and show that working for a Fire Brigade isn't just about Fighting Fires.
Sports enthusiasts across the world will turn their attention from China to Liverpool next week.
For just as the 2008 Olympic Games close, the 2008 World Firefighters Games begin.
Both uniformed and non-uniformed fire service workers across the region will be flying the flag for the North West in the 67-event mini Olympics.
Members of Britain and Europe's biggest public sector union UNISON will be among the competitors, including Greater Manchester Fire Branch members Janice Pugh and Paul Warburton.
Janice, who chairs UNISON's North West Regional Fire Forum, is running the half-marathon on Tuesday (26 August) and Paul is taking part in the 5K run the following week.
UNISON's Regional Officer for fire service members, Mike Booth, said: "This is the 10th World Fire Fighters Games and is being hosted by Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service. It's fitting that the games are being held in Liverpool in the year that the city has been awarded the status of European Capital of Culture.
"The Games bring fire service personnel from across the world together and enable UNISON members to show that working for a fire brigade isn't just about fighting fires.
"Delivering a fire and rescue service is a team effort just like hosting and taking part in a major sporting event. However, the jobs UNISON members do such as paying the salaries and wages, repairing the fire appliances, maintaining and cleaning the fire stations are often unsung.
"These Games give our members a chance to step into the limelight and show they are an important part of the fire service team alongside uniformed staff."
More than 5000 competitors will take part in the Games, which run from 24 August to 3 September 2008.
As well as the many sporting events, there will be a full social and family programme throughout with an Olympic Village in operation at the new Liverpool Arena and Convention Centre on Liverpool's waterfront.
UNISON is hosting a stall at the event.
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CONTACT DETAILS
• To find out more about membership benefits contact our helpline, UNISONdirect on 0845 355 0845. Lines are open 6am-midnight Mon to Fri and 9am-4pm Sat.
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