Orkney's new water tank has hosted a mock rescue drill from Scottish Water and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS).

The tank was constructed as part of a £350,000 upgrade project at the Water Treatment Works (WTW) just south of Pierowall to improve security of supply for the island.

ESD and contractors Andrew Sinclair are carrying out work on the project, involving the construction of a brand new water tank and pump kiosk.

The tank not been connected yet, and offered up a space for eight Westray firefighters to run their training exercise and try out new equipment.


Site Manager Stuart Kirton said: "We approached the fire and rescue service while we were considering all the health and safety aspects associated with the construction of this tank and invited them along to familiarise themselves with the site, just in case they were required at any point in the construction process.

"During that site visit, the firefighters raised the idea of using the tank for a rescue drill once it had been constructed, as it provided them with the perfect kind of environment they required to test out certain equipment and undertake a simulated exercise.

"We were more than happy to accommodate them in this request and, although we obviously hope they never have to be involved in a real rescue at the site, it was a great opportunity for us to see them in action, as well as being a chance for them to practice responding to a number of possible scenarios which could arise in a similar environment."

The upgrade project at Westray WTW is due to be completed by the end of the year.

(CM)