A FIREFIGHTER has expressed fears the fire engines removed from stations during industrial action last month, will not be returned.

Sidcup was one of 27 fire stations which had one of its appliances removed by the London Fire Brigade, to make it available to the private company AssetCo, to provide cover during industrial action by Fire Brigades Union members over changes in shift patterns.

The firefighter, who says he cannot be named for fear of losing his job, has written to Old Bexley and Sidcup MP James Brokenshire, claiming London Fire and Emergency Planning Authority’s chairman, Brian Coleman, has plans to permanently remove the 27 engines from service.

The Fire Brigade says the appliances will be returned to their stations once the dispute is finally settled.