Scotland's fire and rescue services are to receive an extra £24.6m in the next financial year, it has been announced.

The Scottish government said the money would help the eight services pay for specialist equipment and develop training facilities.

It will also help build and modernise fire stations around the country.
Community Safety Minister Fergus Ewing said the investment would add to the £330m currently given to Scotland's fire and rescue services annually.

'Diverse role'

Mr Ewing said: "Investment in Scotland's public service infrastructure provides both modern public services and jobs for the construction industry - vital in the current economic climate.

"It is vital that the Scottish government can help ensure our eight fire and rescue services have the right equipment, infrastructure and training to deliver their increasingly diverse role."

The money will see £9m directed to identified projects. The remaining £15.6m is to be divided among fire services using an agreed formula.

Mike Bridgman, chairman of the Scottish Fire Conveners Forum, said: "Fire conveners are delighted that their recommendations on capital projects have been accepted by the minister.

"We are particularly pleased that decisions have been taken in good time to aid financial planning for 2010/11."

Source: BBC website