A LIFESAVING team that frees people from their cars following accidents are champions at what they do.

Competing at the World Rescue Organisation European Challenge in Austria at the weekend, Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service’s vehicle extrication team succeeded in winning every title.

This places Hampshire in an excellent position for this year’s UK Rescue Challenge, which is being held right here in the county.

Held in Zirl, the European challenge had 13 of Europe’s top vehicle extrication teams taking part from countries including Germany, Austria, Sweden and Switzerland.

Representing the UK for the second time in three years, Hampshire scooped all the main prizes as well as being names the best European Team overall.

Team Leader watch manager Steve Barrow said: “Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service has a strong team, one that the county can be proud of.

“We are delighted to win this title and hope we can repeat this success when the UK challenge comes to Hampshire later in the year.”

In September, Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service will host the UK Rescue Challenge, which will be an opportunity to determine the best British vehicle extrication team from over 50 challenging teams.

Running from September 30 to October 2, the event is reliant on sponsors.

The service needs old cars for the challenge and anyone within the county who might have an old car they wish to donate can contact Silverlake Autoparts on 01489 782537, stating it’s a fire and rescue donation, and they will collect it.