SIR Michael Spicer said he was impressed by the cutting-edge technology and professionalism he saw during a visit to Malvern Fire Station.

The West Worcestershire MP was shown round the standard appliances, the mobile command centre and even hefted one of the heavy hoses the firefighters have to drag up the Malvern Hills to put fires out.

"I was delighted to visit the fire station for several reasons," he said. "Firstly, the firefighters play a crucial role in protecting the Malvern Hills, and I was made more aware of the difficulties that poses.

"The other thing was that they are a command headquarters when the mobile command centre is required. Malvern provides the command headquarters for the whole county in a major incident."

He said the technology on the £250,000 mobile headquarters was "very, very impressive", mentioning in particular the facility for receiving heat-sensitive pictures of fires from helicopters hovering overhead.

"They're a fine force there," he said, "A very efficient and impressive operation. Malvern should be proud and pleased to have them."

Sub-officer Saul Bolton, who helped show Sir Michael round, said his reaction of amazement of the levels of technology used was a common one.

"He seemed to be enjoying himself, and taking on board what we were saying," he added.

Sir Michael said he would be writing to chief fire officer David O'Dwyer to ask what can be done to make water available at the top of the hills in case of fire.

"At the moment, the water has to be pumped up there along very heavy, hand-carried pipes," he said, "Fire appliances run out of water in a matter of minutes during a hill fire."