TWO part-time firemen, whose workshop went up in flames, are back at work thanks to the generosity of Adver readers.

Retained firefighters Pete Price and Jason Smith's workshop burned down on January 25 while they were responding to a 999 emergency.

The two mechanics downed tools to respond to the call, and returned to find their site at The Gallons, in Cricklade, ablaze.

After an appeal for help in the Adver, offers of spare tools came flooding in.

Pete, 41, said: "We're very grateful to all the people who have donated tools. It has given us an opportunity to get back on our feet.

"Unfortunately we haven't been able to get around to all the people who have offered us stuff because we've also been really busy with the fire service.

"We'd also like to thank our customers, who have been very understanding, and also to the team who have given up their personal time to help us clear the site." Graham Hale, a retired engineer from Purton, was one of the people who donated tools after seeing the Adver article.

"I felt sorry for them and, seeing as how I'm long retired and I've got these tools lying about, I thought they could use them," he said.

Darren Fusco, from JMS Building Services on Whitworth Road, has donated a compressor, air tools and spanners.

He said: "They obviously need a helping hand and I'm glad to be able to offer one."

Reg Bessent, from Lydiard Millicent, said: "They've helped other people, so it's only right someone helps them.

"I used to do my own repairs years ago and I've got an assortment of tools - some of them never used."

Pete and Jason had been fixing a transit van when the fire call came in.

As they dropped their tools, a heated piece of equipment rolled onto the floor of the vehicle and slowly smouldered.

When they returned minutes later they watched £170,000 worth of equipment going up in smoke.

Anyone else who may be able to help is asked to call the Adver on 01793 501801.