MEMBERS of the public can have their say about the potential merger between Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service and its counterpart in Suffolk.

A three-month consultation was launched on October 22 to see if residents would give their backing to a full merger between the two fire services – the services believe the move could save hundreds of thousands of pounds and protect frontline services.

The results of the consultation will be given to the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Fire Authority ready for its February meeting when a final decision will be made.

Suffolk County Council’s cabinet also has to agree to the merger before any work can start. The merger would also have to be approved by the Government.

Fred Brown, chairman of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Fire Authority, said: “We want to gauge what people think about this important decision and to find out if they would be happy for further collaboration, or a merged fire and rescue service, if it would save a significant amount of money and protect the number of frontline firefighters employed.

“We are happy to hear all opinions, whether positive or negative and they will be fed back to members to inform them in making a final decision in the new year.”

INFORMATION: The consultation closes on January 14, 2013. To take part visit www.cambsfire.gov.uk, pick up a pack from Cambridgeshire libraries or fire stations, or call 01480 444500 to get one delivered.