MPs HAVE taken the fight to save Wilton and Mere fire stations to Westminster, securing a high-level meeting with the Fire Minister as pressure grows over potential closures.

John Glen and Andrew Murrison joined colleagues from across Wiltshire and Dorset to raise concerns directly with Samantha Dixon at the Home Office.

The meeting comes amid widespread concern about proposals that could see eight fire stations close as part of cost-saving measures by the service.

Speaking after the talks, Mr Glen said he was encouraged by the response from the minister.

“I am very pleased that my Wiltshire and Dorset colleagues and I managed to organise a meeting with the Fire Minister to discuss our concerns about the proposed closure of fire stations across the two counties,” he said.

“I am grateful to the minister for her time and for her careful consideration of this urgent issue.

“I am very pleased that she has committed to working with her officials and Wiltshire and Dorset fire service to look for ways to broaden the options available to our chief fire officer.

“I am determined to do everything I can to save Wilton Fire Station from closure; this is a positive step toward finding alternative ways to meet or alleviate the budget restraints before the consultation closes and decisions are final.”

South West Wiltshire MP Dr Murrison also struck a hopeful tone following the discussions.

“Positive meeting with Wilts and Dorset MP colleagues and Fire Minister Samantha Dixon at Home Office just now. Fingers crossed there’s a way ahead that’ll prevent fire station closures.”

The future of stations including Wilton and Mere has sparked strong reaction, with residents warning closures could impact emergency response times in rural areas.

Fire chiefs have said the proposals are part of efforts to deal with ongoing financial pressures, but no final decisions have yet been made.

A public consultation remains open until May 15, with campaigners urging people to have their say as efforts continue to find a way forward.