FIREFIGHTERS were seen abseiling from a 90ft crane this week as part of a training exercise in the town centre.

Crews from Northwich and Lymm fire stations attended the event to prepare them for possible similar situations in the future.

The crane used was part of the Waters Cross development, which is being on built on the former council offices site on Watling Street.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service reassured residents not to be alarmed beforehand if they saw swarms of firefighters descending from such a height.

The event was organised in partnership with property developers Galliford Try, who are currently building a block of over-55 apartments overlooking the River Dane.

Northwich Guardian:

Speaking before the training took place, Northwich crew manager Daryl Codling said: “As firefighters, we need to be ready to deal with all kinds of scenarios.

“It is only by taking part in training sessions such as this that we can develop the skills we require.

“As part of this training session the team will be put to the test with a height rescue.

"The crew will be using their specialist knowledge and a variety of state-of-the-art equipment to rescue a person from the top of the crane and bring them down to safety.

"I would like to thank Galliford Try for allowing us to use the facilities for the exercise.”