Richard Mallinson, Crew Manager at Sleaford Fire Station, said: "It will enhance the skills and capability of a dedicated group of local fire fighters which will directly and positively affect the emergency response given to the communities in and around Sleaford".

Two to three new vehicles have been delivered to the county each week since February 2008 as part of a £60million 20-year deal with private firm AssetCo. Firefighters have worked closely with AssetCo, ensuring the custom design and layout meets Lincolnshire's needs.

Mike Thomas, Chief Fire Officer, said: "The delivery of 33 new pumping appliances, along with the existing 23 major refurbishments, with new rescue equipment, lighting and hose represent the largest investment ever made in the service. It reflects the fire authority's desire to improve community safety and ensure its fire and rescue service is equipped to meet the community's needs.”

The new fire appliances use the latest technology, are eco-friendly, deliver state of the art performance and put firefighters' safety foremost in the design.

New features include additional protection of fire crews, with high visibility markings for attending road collisions. The vehicles have improved emergency scene lighting and the crew cab has been tailored for storage of equipment. The cab will have low noise levels to aid clear communication between crew members and Brigade Control.

The new fire appliances will display both the UK emergency telephone number (999) and the Pan-European (112) emergency telephone number, to raise public awareness of the existence of the single European Emergency Telephone Number.