A vehicle capable of rescuing people from almost 150ft in the air was unveiled at Whitley Wood Fire Station in Reading today (Friday).

It’s high capacity hose enables firefighters to deliver a 3,800 litres of water per minute through the vehicle.

The truck, named an aerial ladder platform, was demonstrated in front of the chairman of the Royal Berkshire Fire Authority Colin Dudley and others.

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Councillor Colin Dudley, Chairman of Royal Berkshire Fire Authority, said: “I am delighted that as a Fire Authority we have invested in this important equipment, which will directly benefit residents of Royal Berkshire.

“The new aerial ladder platform has a significantly increased reach over the vehicle it replaces, which supports work to improve the Service’s response in complex operations and incidents within high-rise buildings.”

The vehicle can also reach horizontally 85ft, enabling firefighters to access more difficult to reach areas.

Chief fire officer of Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service Wayne Bowcock said: “I would like to place on record my thanks to the Fire Authority for their investment and our colleagues in Oxfordshire County Council Fire and Rescue Service for working together effectively to deliver this equipment.

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“To maintain a modern fire and rescue service, it is important that we provide fit-for-purpose, 21st century operational equipment to support our firefighters in the delivery excellent services to the communities we serve.

“This gives our residents the reassurance and confidence that we have the equipment and professional skill to respond quickly and highly effectively.”

The new aerial ladder platform forms part of a programme to update the service’s fleet with vehicles incorporating the latest technology.