FIREFIGHTERS have responded angrily after callous thieves broke into a fire station to steal lifesaving equipment.

The latest in a series of raids on Essex fire stations happened overnight at Orsett Fire Station when thieves took Clan Lucas cutting equipment that will cost £13,000 to replace.

The equipment, - known as the jaws of life - is part of vital equipment used to rescue people trapped in their cars following road traffic collisions.

This hydraulic cutting and spreading equipment is used to free causalities who are trapped in the wreckage of their cars following a collision or those that cannot be safely removed because of the extent of their injuries.

In recent months similar equipment has been stolen from stations in Corringham, Frinton, Colchester and Leigh.

Divisional fire officer Justin Johnson said: "This equipment could mean the difference between life and death for someone trapped in their car and this theft not only hurts us but hurts the millions of motorists who rely on us to come to their rescue when the worst happens.

"It is disgusting to think that someone would break into a fire station and steal equipment which we have solely to provide protection to the public. It is completely mindless for someone to steal from a service which is dedicated to saving lives."

The equipment was stolen from Orsett between midnight and 7am this morning (Friday).