Firefighters in Bury St Edmunds were joined by a Euro MP to celebrate 100 years of the Fire Brigades Union (FBU).

Alex Mayer MEP visited Bury St Edmunds Fire Station on Friday where a cake with 100 candles was enjoyed by crew members.

The FBU was formed in 1918 with 1,000 members nationwide but 100 years on it now boasts 500 members in Suffolk alone, with more than 44,000 across the UK.

Ms Mayer met with FBU regional secretary and firefighter Riccardo La Torre to discuss issues such as reducing exposure to carcinogens where there was a recent EU vote, and how European countries can share best practice to reduce fire risk.

Ms Mayer said: “Our brave firefighters normally only hit the headlines in terrible situations, so it is great to celebrate in happier circumstances.

“The history of firefighting is one of solidarity, danger and duty. It is right that the FBU work to promote safety of firefighters and the general public.”