WILTSHIRE'S fire brigade has changed its name to the Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service.
Formed in 1948 as a fire brigade, the service says the change reflects the fact it deals with as many rescues now as it does fires.
Chief Fire Officer Andy Goves said the change brought Wiltshire in line with almost every other service in the country.
"It's important that the name of the organisation shows how far we have come in such a short time with regard to modernisation of the service," Mr Goves said.
"Wiltshire Fire Brigade has a long and proud history and that will remain with us. Our personnel are involved more than ever with safety on the road and fire prevention, as well as operational work, and our new name underlines this wide-ranging role."
The name change will be phased in gradually to keep the cost to a minimum, Mr Goves added.
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