FIREFIGHTERS in Accrington were hoping to spark public support todayover proposed budget cuts.

A 10-strong retained crew and engine at the town's fire station are among a number of services facing the axe when fire authority chiefs hold a crunch meeting next week.

The team was set to collect signatures for a petition in the town centre to back their case.

The meeting on Mondaywill determine the budget for next year, with fire chiefs asked to spend just under £40 million.

They claim an extra £4 million is needed to keep services at current levels and a £2 million savings list has been drawn up.

Options include the closure of Oswaldtwistle station and the axing of part-time retained crews at Padiham, Colne and Barnoldswick, as well as Accrington.

Firefighters union bosses warned this week they could call for strike action if any full-time staff are axed.

Hyndburn MP Greg Pope, who is to meet Combined Fire Authority chairman Bob Clark, said: "I am worried about the prospect of the town losing an engine.

"I hope to visit Accrington fire station soon to hear the views of the firefighters."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.