FROM today, the Kent Fire Brigade will be called the Kent Fire and Rescue Service as part of a national process of change.

In its White Paper, the Government made it clear that the service will now be referred to as the Fire and Rescue Service. This will reflect its growing role in preventative work, response to road traffic accidents and non-fire related emergencies.

In addition, the Kent and Medway Towns Fire Authority, which is responsible for the Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS), is now called the Kent and Medway Fire and Rescue Authority (KMFRA).

Kent Fire and Rescue Service's Deputy Chief Fire Officer Charlie Hendry said: "Costs of this government-led change will be minimal because we will adopt a phased, gradual approach. This will allow everyone to adjust to the new names."