Dryer film firefighters keep jobs

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Four firefighters involved in a prank in which one of them was spun in a tumble dryer, have kept their jobs.

Footage was posted on the internet of Andy Bruce, 33, climbing into the machine at Blackley fire station in Manchester before it was switched on.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said that four firefighters suspended over the prank have been fined and given a written warning.

In a statement, they said that they "deeply regretted" the stunt.

We're genuinely ashamed and would stress that nobody should try to copy the stupid act we did Firefighters' statement

Mr Bruce and colleagues Simon Leyland, Glenn Simon and Chris Wilcox were suspended in August pending the outcome of the disciplinary hearing.

They have been given final written warnings and fined 13 days pay.

The men's statement said: "We all very much deeply regret our actions and the damage and embarrassment they have caused to our fire service and would like to publicly apologise.

"We are all extremely proud and privileged to be Greater Manchester firefighters and know we are extremely lucky to have kept our posts.

"We recognise that our behaviour was totally irresponsible and we're genuinely ashamed and would stress that nobody should try to copy the stupid act that we did."

'Irresponsible'

In the video, Mr Bruce, who has been a firefighter for four years, climbs in the machine which is then switched on.

He is turned over inside it several times as colleagues laugh in the background.

County Fire Officer Barry Dixon said: "This was an extremely serious disciplinary case regarding a reckless and irresponsible act.

"While it may appear amusing to some people it must not be forgotten that the fire and rescue service, due to its life-saving role, works in an environment in which health and safety has to be a priority.

"The public need to be confident that our approach is such that they are never at risk."