THERE was a different kind of drama going on at the Savoy Theatre last weekend when six fire crews converged on the building to carry out a training exercise.

On Sunday (9th April) crews from Monmouth, Chepstow, Abergavenny and Whitchurch attended along with supporting officers to a mock rescue operation when fire was simulated in the theatre in Church Street and volunteers became casualties to help with the realism of the event.

It was a co-ordinated event between South Wales Fire and Rescue and Hereford and Worcester Fire Service to test operational response in part of the town where access could be an issue for such a large building with potentially a large number of people present.

Exercise planner, Watch Manager Darren Cleaves said: “It was a great opportunity for us to train with our neighbouring brigade in event of providing cross border support at a large scale incident.

“I would like to thank Gwent Police especially PCSO Alan Wakeling with the traffic management on the day,” he added.

The Savoy Theatre provided an audience allowing the staff to practice their evacuation procedures before the arrival of the fire service who promptly dealt with the smoke filled building dealing with the fire situation and rescuing casualties. 

If you would need smoke alarms ring 0800 169 1234 with your details, crews from Monmouth will contact you to arrange a fire safety visit. 

Monmouth also has vacancies for part time firefighters, for more details call in to the fire station on Rockfield Road on a Tuesday evening.