PEOPLE in Tavistock are being invited to visit the newly refurbished Tavistock Fire Station this Saturday, to see the £150,000 improvements made, take part in activities and watch demonstrations.

Tavistock Fire Station's open day is a chance for members of the public to have a look around the refurbished community station, which is being opened by deputy mayor councillor Anne Johnson.

Throughout the day there will be a number of activities taking pace, including chip pan and road traffic demonstrations, a bouncy castle and various stalls.

The work completed on the station ensures the building can now be used to its full potential for both firefighters and the community.

Originally constructed in 1976, the station over the years has had little spent on it except for programmed maintenance and minor improvements.

Improvements to the station include the removal of asbestos, upgrading the facilities to enable community groups to use the station lecture room, improved welfare facilities for station personnel, improved fire kit storage and drying facilities, and a complete internal redecoration.

A spokesperson for DSFRS said: 'The refurbishment forms part of Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service's rolling programme of upgrading its 80-plus fire stations, and brings the building up to the standards required of a modern fire service as well as extending the operational life of the station for a further 20 to 25 years.

'In line with DSFRS's commitment to reduce its carbon footprint through reduced energy consumption in its buildings, additional works included the installation of a new, more efficient central heating system, low energy light fittings, and insulated doors to the fire appliance bays.'

Walls to the station had been insulated previously and to complete the refurbishment, the exterior of the station will be redecorated by the end of the year.

The open day will run from 10am to 4pm.

The fire officers will also be taking part in a car wash at Bedford Car park throughout the day with money raised going to Derriford Hospital's Oncology department and the Fire-Fighters Charity.