WIDNES Fire Station's annual open event is hitting the road for the first time next weekend.

Instead of being held at the station on Lacey Street, firefighters and a range of fire and rescue vehicles will be at Victoria Park to be part of the annual North West Vintage Rally, taking place next Saturday and Sunday (September 28-29) from 10am-5pm.

Visitors will have the chance to have a look around and sit inside the vehicles, including vintage fire engines, and find out about the work that Widnes firefighters do and the equipment they use.

Firefighters will also conduct a number of safety displays and a road traffic collision demonstration, aided by police officers.

Station manager Stuart Devereux said: "Our annual open event is always a great way for residents to learn about the life of a firefighter and the roles that they and the station play in serving the community.

"It is fun and informative for all the family and it also represents an ideal opportunity to pick up some vital safety messages to keep you and your loved ones safe.

"But this year we have decided to make a change, increasing our presence at the North West Vintage Rally instead of asking people to come and visit us at Widnes Fire Station.

"This will enable us to engage with more members of the public.

"The event at Victoria Park always attracts tens of thousands of visitors and we are looking forward to speaking to lots of people there and showcasing the equipment we use and our technical skills during safety displays and a road traffic collision demonstration.

"Our kitchen safety vehicle will be there, as will Widnes Fire Cadets, who will be showing what they can do and how smoke behaves in a fire.

"We want as many people to go along and learn about the work we do at Widnes Fire Station as possible."

The North West Vintage Rally offers a wide range of attractions, including vintage vehicles, hand-tuned organs, a miniature steam engine, a vintage funfair, model boats, stationary engines, crafts, models and collections and various entertainment.

Free car parking will be available near Victoria Park.

Visitors are advised to look out for signs when approaching.

For more information about the event visit www.northwestvintagerally.co.uk.