IN this edition of nostalgia, we are looking back at Cumbria’s emergency services throughout the years.

Covering an area of across approximately 5,400 square miles, NWAS serves a population of the communities of Cumbria, Lancashire, Greater Manchester, Merseyside, Cheshire and Glossop.

Formed in 2006, the trust provides services to almost 7 million people. NWAS receive approximately 1.7 million 999 calls and respond to over a million emergency incidents each year. They make more than 1.3 million patient transport journeys every year for those who require non-emergency transport to and from healthcare appointments.

There are more than 1,000 people who volunteer with NWAS as community first responders, volunteer car drivers or patient and public panel members, and they have over 1,000 emergency and non-emergency vehicles operating across the North West.

Our ambulance service has an annual budget of £473 million.

Cumbria Constabulary, established in 1974, played a pivotal role in maintaining Cumbria’s safety, and cemented it as one of the safest counties to live in.

One notable aspect of Cumbria Police is their emphasis on community engagement. By fostering strong partnerships with local residents, businesses, schools and organisations, they actively involve the community in their efforts.

Prior to 1947, there was the National Fire Service and before that there were various independent services run by volunteers in villages, towns and cities throughout the country. Cumbria Fire Service was formed in 1974 after local government was reorganised.

 It took in Cumberland Fire Service, Westmorland Fire Service, Carlisle and Barrow Fire Services and parts of Lancashire and Yorkshire. In 2005, the service changed its name to Cumbria Fire and Rescue service to reflect the new responsibilities it now has.     

The floods in 2005, 2009 and 2015 wreaked havoc, during these trying times, the bravery and dedication of Cumbria's Fire Service shine through.