by Nicola Jordan

Fire stations across Kent are officially due to close today - after sweeping changes were announced by service bosses.

Sites at Matfield, Halling, Horton Kirby, Sturry, Seal, St Margaret's, Queenborough and Rusthall are to close, with a second engine to be removed from Hythe.

But Horton Kirby has had a stay of execution - staying open until a new station is built at New Ash Green.

The move came after bosses at Kent Fire and Rescue Service carried out a review, and concluded there were more fire engines than needed - even to deal with a major emergency.

As well as the closures, new stations will be opened in New Ash Green and Herne Bay, Ramsgate and two in the Medway Towns.

The review was prompted by a 25% fall in callouts.

On Saturday, villagers in Halling turned out in force to say an emotional farewell to their firefighters after the 100-year-old station closed for the final time.

Scores of families lined the streets cheering as the crew did a lap of honour in their engine, sirens blazing and blue lights flashing.

Children joined the procession on their scooters while others went to the pub to toast the firefighter friends they had grown up with.

Fittingly, among those to turn the key at the station in Vicarage Road for the last time was Daryl Palmer and his dad Mick who between them have been firefighting for 51 years.

A crowd erupted into rapturous applause as watch manager Mark Tickner, clearly overwhelmed with the turnout, said a few words.

Mr Tickner said: "Never in my wildest days did I dream of anything like this. I am completely blown away. It just says it all."

Mick Palmer, 64, said: "I feel very let down."

Son Daryl, 43, chairman of Halling Parish Council, is pressing for the building to be used by the community.

He said: "Whatever the political situation, it is a very sad day for us. The fight to keep it open is over but the battle continues to turn it into a place for the people who live here."

Daryl, who lives in Vicarage Close, has daughters Emily 16, Ellen, 14 and a son Jake, 12.