THE first wave of volunteers who have put themselves forward to help the emergency services and council respond to serious incidents will receive their initial training at the end of January.

The Wirral Emergency Volunteer (WEV) team will be a key part in the emergency response to incidents such as flooding, heavy snow or even by stewarding for large scale events in the borough.

Around 200 people have already offered their services, but there is still time for people to join.

Induction and initial training of WEVs takes place at the Floral Pavilion in New Brighton on January 30 from 6pm to 8.30pm.

There will be further opportunities for volunteers to attend additional, specialised training in a number of possible emergency response roles, such as flood warden, snow warden and befriender.

Cllr George Davies, Wirral's cabinet member for housing and community safety, said: "Wirral has seen some serious situations in recent years and it's not hard to imagine that we could one day face a situation where we require members of the public to take a role in responding to a crisis.

"Volunteers don't need to worry about training, which we will provide, or about suddenly being called away from other responsibilities they may have. The scheme is entirely voluntary."

Wirral Emergency Volunteers will not be on call. The council will keep volunteers' contact details on file, and request assistance if an incident occurs.

To register to become a Wirral Emergency Volunteer, go to www.wirral.gov.uk/WEV and either complete an application online or download an application form and return it by post to the address provided.

For more information call 0151 606 2020.