DECOMMISSIONED fire equipment from West Yorkshire would be sent to help boost fire services in developing countries under a new charity partnership.

West Yorkshire Fire Authority has been urged to work with charity Operation Florian, which sends firefighting equipment at the end of its life to developing countries with limited fire services. Staff would also volunteer their time to visit these countries and help build their fire fighting capabilities. Recently a small number of staff volunteered to train and develop firefighters in Montenegro.

A report into the partnership says: "The work they undertook was demanding but extremely rewarding.

"It is safe to say that alongside the obvious benefits the charity provides to the recipients, it also develops our staff and therefore will arguably benefit our organisation. Ultimately, the experience and skills they gain from working with the charity provides a wider benefit to the communities of West Yorkshire."

The idea will be discussed by the authority's Finance and Resources Committee, which meets at it's Birkenshaw headquarters at 10.30am on Friday.

A report to the committee says equipment and appliances donated would have "no residual value" as it would be reaching the end of operational life in the UK. It suggests the authority donate up to 20 days a year of staff time to the partnership.