Queen Elizabeth's family at risk

Britain's Royal Family are said to be at risk because of cutbacks which have seen Windsor fire station closed.

Britain's Royal Family are said to be at risk because of cutbacks at Windsor fire station.

The local fire station at the town - where the queen has a permanent residence - has been closed, with its two crews moved to a base seven miles away.

Plans moving forward could see the station replaced with a "souped-up van" manned by just three fire fighters, which sources say would only be capable of dealing with small bin and grass fires.

A fire service source told the Daily Mirror newspaper: "This is madness, the level of cover proposed in a town is just appalling.

"The royals will be wide open in the event of a fire, or a terror attack.

"If an incident happens at Windsor Castle we need to react immediately, the nearest cover will be miles away, and every second is vital."

A fire struck Windsor castle 20 years ago and since then then a small crew has been placed within its grounds. However, after a period of fire consultation service, which is due to end in January the town - classified as a major terrorist target due to its royal links - could be left without proper cover.

While Windsor has no cover, Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue crews will have to travel from nearby towns, wasting vital minutes.

Mark Stollery, Berkshire Fire Brigades Union's (BFBU) secretary, said: "We have grave professional concerns."

BFBU chairman Maurice Whyte, added: "What the fire authority is proposing is a souped-up van with a crew of three. When you attend a fire you need appropriate resources. An undersized fire engine with a minimum crew is not an appropriate resource."

The fire service denies the cuts will leave the Royal Family exposed, saying in a statement: "A senior officer is researching the most effective format for the Windsor fire engine, in terms of vehicle type, equipment and size of crew and will take into account the views of staff and unions.

"The final decision will be based upon the most suitable option."