Essential brews served to emergency crews at plant fire

Salvation Army volunteers were called out to provide food and drink for more than 50 first-responders tackling a refuse plant fire in Gateshead.

A minibus from Austin House Family Centre was used to deliver the hot drinks and food to on-site emergency crews, Environment Agency workers and local authority staff.

The volunteers attended from 2 pm on Sunday 28 February until Monday 1 March at 10.40 am.

Major Stephen Slade said: “It’s always a privilege to support the emergency workers who keep our communities safe and to provide a place of sanctuary and refreshment during a busy callout.”