SOUTHEND’s new mayor has wasted little time hiring some fiery escorts for future functions.

Ann Holland, who has been vice-chairman of Essex Fire Authority for ten years, has enlisted nine firefighters to take turns in accompanying her to official events.

Mrs Holland, who has taken over from Brian Smith, said: “The chief fire officer thought it was a good idea. It gives the fire service a chance to get to groups they wouldn’t otherwise meet and raise their profile while letting the public know what the fire service does, which is more than fight fires.

“They will be doing mainly the civic and charity events. They will do it in their own time when they are on standby, so it won’t cost the fire service anything.

“I will send a rota off to the fire service and it will be sent to the escorts. Just one of them will come with me. There are nine on the list.”

Having had a taste of the busy life of a mayor during her year as deputy, Mrs Holland can’t wait for her year in office.

She said: “I am looking forward to meeting all of the diverse groups. Last year I met the Chelsea Pensioners and the Land Army Girls.

“I have got to greet the East Anglian Regiment. Knowing the tremendous work they are doing it will be an honour. “I am also looking forward to going to Hampton Court Flower Show to see our entry and going to schools to see the work they are doing. On a cultural note I will enjoy seeing our local choirs and amateur dramatic groups. It is lovely to see what talent Southend has got.”