Surrey Fire and Rescue Service has been invited to compete against the best rescue teams in the world at an international tournament.

The county’s extrication team will travel to Cork, in Ireland, for the World Rescue Challenge where they will attempt to free victims of mock car crashes, from 2 to 5 September. During the invitation only event, they will be up against some of the world’s best firefighters including teams from the USA, Canada, Spain, Germany and Australia,

Each team will take part in three challenges against the clock which test leadership, technical ability and medical skills. They all involve rescuing victims of mock car crashes who have problems ranging from trapped limbs to life-threatening injuries.

Dave Steggles, from Surrey Fire and Rescue, said: "Using our skills in a competitive environment is the perfect way to hone the rescue methods we could be called upon to use in a life and death situation on Surrey’s roads at a moment’s notice. It’s also an incredible opportunity to learn from some of the best rescuers around and I’m sure our team will show the opposition a thing or two."

Kay Hammond, Surrey County Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Safety, said: "Each day around 3,200 people across the world die as result of road crashes. Events such as the World Rescue Challenge offer an invaluable opportunity for firefighters to learn from each other in the spirit of friendly competition. I wish our team the best of luck and I’m sure the knowledge they bring back with them will help save the lives of those in need of rescue on Surrey’s roads."