LIVES could be put at risk in our area following swingeing cuts in the fire service.

Wellington and Wiveliscombe 'part-time' fire fighters could be left without vital back-up during major incidents after a reduction in the number of full-time firemen at Taunton from 50 to 30, say Fire Brigades Union officials.

FBU executive member for the South West and former Somerset fire fighter, Tam McFarlane, said: "There are likely to be delays for both stations getting back-up from Taunton which could lead to possible loss of life."

Read the full story in today's WWN.