Port Solent to host 999 Day with vintage fire engines and live crew demonstrations

On September 3, visitors can learn what it’s like to be an emergency services crew member with the chance to meet those who work for Hampshire public services.

Visitors can meet Hampshire fire and rescue, Raynet (Emergency Communications Service), Hampshire police, the RNLI, South Coast Ambulance Service and Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance staff and view their vehicles.

The deputy lord mayor of Portsmouth will be attending the event, which is set to be bigger than ever before.

On display will be vintage fire engines and police cars for visitors to explore, a fire investigation dog demonstration and the opportunity for children to get up close and imagine being a firefighter or police officer.

At 1pm there will also be a ‘jaws of life’ demonstration showing how the fire brigade cut vehicles in an accident.

Port Solent’s Lisa Fowler said: ‘Our annual 999 day proves popular every September and this year is set to be another great line-up of a huge range of emergency vehicles.

‘It’s a brilliant chance for people to meet and speak with the people who are sometimes at the sharp end of emergency situations.’

Visitors will also have the chance to cheer on Hampshire Firefighters Stu and Craig, who are raising awareness of mental health and supporting Solent Mind and The Firefighters Charity by taking on the world's toughest row: The Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge.

They’ll be preparing for their challenge by rowing alongside their boat throughout the 999 Day event.