SPECTACULAR demonstrations, crazy games and award-winning firefighters were all part of Warrington Fire Station's annual open day.

Despite the station receiving a dozen emergency calls on Sunday, the interruptions didn't spoil the fun of the hoards of visitors who attended the event. Popular attractions included Dunk the Fireman and Bat the Rat, as well as bouncy castles and face painting.

One fire crew rushed back from Glasgow after beating off competition from 27 other brigades to come ninth in the British National Extrication Competition. This involves demonstrating their skills in cutting casualties free from cars. The team, which already holds the Cheshire title and was the highest placed first-time entrants in the national competition, showed off its expertise to the crowds.

The event also had a serious side, providing fire safety information and advice. One dramatic display showed a well-protected firefighter showed the devastating effects of a cup of water thrown on to a chip pan fire, with flames shooting 10 feet into the air.

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