A “cutting edge” new fire engine is being rolled out to tackle fires and other emergencies in Epping Forest.

One of seven new vehicles being introduced across Essex in the coming weeks, the new engine will be based at Loughton station.

With new LED lighting, bigger wheels and more storage space, the vehicle is being touted as a high-tech appliance that will make firefighting safer and more effective.

The new engines are part of a £10 million contract with manufacturer Angloco to provide a total of 42 new fire appliances over the next four years to Essex County Fire and Rescue Service.

Acting chief fire officer Adam Eckley said: “We are working to create a service fit for the future and providing an excellent response by our highly trained crews, in the right vehicles with the right equipment, is at the core of that.”