COTSWOLD MP Geoffrey Clifton-Brown has promised to fight for the Fire Service College in Moreton-in-Marsh to be awarded the National Resilience Capability and Defence Fire Training contracts by the government.

Mr Clifton-Brown visited the college last Thursday to gain insight into its level of progress since being acquired by Capita in 2012.

He was joined by the chair of the APPG for Fire Safety and Rescue, David Amess MP and the college’s managing director, Darren Bance.

The college is a leading organisation for fire prevention and protection, providing assessed, accredited and assured fire and multi-service training for emergency service professionals globally.

As well as being a national asset, it is also provides important employment opportunities in Moreton-in-Marsh and the surrounding area.

Mr Clifton-Brown has continually supported the ongoing operation of the college and holds quarterly meetings with the management team to discuss the progress taking place at the institution.

Following the visit, he said: “The group were extremely impressed with what they saw and cannot believe that the government has just arbitrarily withdrawn the National Resilience Capability contract.

“It was agreed the group would campaign for its return but also that the college should be awarded the major Defence Fire Training contract.

“I will be seeking to lead the debate on this subject in Parliament,” he said.