Highlands and Islands Fire and Rescue training 'improved'

A fire service criticised by a public watchdog in March has improved its crews' training, fire chiefs have said.

Serious concerns were raised about how Highlands and Islands Fire and Rescue Service was run and the level of training provided to its crews.

A peer support team, involving senior officers from HIFRS and other brigades, was set up to help guide improvements.

Following the team's latest meeting, HIFRS said hard work was paying off but added that some challenges remained.

HIFRS said one area where marked changes had been made was in breathing apparatus training.