FIREFIGHTERS had to rescue three people trapped in the wreckage of crashed cars in one day.

But fortunately, on this occasion, it was only for training — the crews were taking part in dealing with road traffic accidents at Horwich fire station.

All firefighters in Bolton have taken part in the training, the first borough in the Greater Manchester fire service’s 11 divisions to do so. In total, they used 40 cars for the exercise, donated by HM Recovery in Horwich.

Bolton borough trainer, Andy Barker, said: “Everyone knows firefighters tackle fires but dealing with road traffic collisions is a significant part of their work so it is essential we train for them.

“We always have to keep training, to try to consider every eventuality and to keep up to date with any new technology, such as the new hybrid cars.”

He added: “Julian Minter from HM Recovery very kindly donated the vehicles, which were impounded after failed police checks.

“It has helped us tremendously to train with roadworthy cars, so he has done us and the community a good service.”

Firefighters trained in stabilising a crashed vehicle, cutting the roofs off cars, rescuing casualties from different vehicles, and how to move casualties safely.

On average, there are more than 100 road traffic accidents in Bolton every year. The statistics are gathered from April to April and, so far this year, there have been 80 accidents.

Mr Barker said: “It is very likely we will get more accidents by the end of the financial year than we have had before, which is why this training is so important.”