More than 6,000 people got an insight into the work of the emergency services at yesterday's Blue Light Community Open Day on Sunday, July 14.

Held jointly between Cheshire Police and Cheshire Fire and Rescue, the day was a chance for both emergency services to showcase the skilled and varied work they do.

There were displays from the Constabulary Band and demonstrations of how the police and fire services work together in a road traffic collision.

A second display arena provided action-packed demonstrations by public order officers dealing with petrol bombings, an electrifying Taser demonstration and the fire service’s rope rescue team.

The police dogs proved as popular as ever with more than 1,000 people turning up throughout the day to see them demonstrate their skills.

On site were static displays of current and historic police and fire vehicles giving the public a nostalgic look back, and a chance to see how far technology has come in advancing the emergency services’ vehicles.

Officers, firefighters and staff were also on hand at the Winsford HQ to issue crime prevention advice, safety tips and information throughout the day.

Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Matt Welsted said: "The Blue Light Community Open Day was a fantastic event, and from speaking to the public it is clear that the day is extremely valuable in engaging with the communities we serve and showcasing some of the great work that goes on across the force.

"I would like to thank our partners at Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service who teamed up with us for the event. They played a key role in ensuring the smooth running of the day and demonstrating the fantastic work of the emergency services."

Assistant Chief Fire Officer Gus O’Rourke said: “It was fantastic to see so many people of all ages come along to discover more about what the blue light services do.

“I hope everyone had a great time and managed to pick up some vital information that could help keep them and their families safe in the future.”

“Police and crime commissioner, David Keane, said: “The Open Day provided a fantastic opportunity for Cheshire residents to see what goes on behind the scenes at two important blue light services.

“It was great to see so many families engaging in the activities to see for themselves how Cheshire Police is working to tackle all types of crime to help keep our communities safe.

“Community engagement is really important and what better way to connect with our communities than opening the doors to the police and fire headquarters.

“A big thank you to all the officers, staff and volunteers that worked the event. Without their support, it wouldn’t have been possible.”

Chair of Cheshire Fire Authority, Councillor Bob Rudd, said: “The open day was a great success and was a testament to the hardworking fire and police staff, cadets and volunteers involved in putting together the event.

“They made sure that everyone who came had an enjoyable day and could experience a behind the scenes look at the work of our emergency services.”