A FIRE station has once again shown its vital role in West Dorset, responding to multiple flooding incidents yesterday, even as its future remains under threat.

Maiden Newton Fire Station reported six callouts, most related to flood incidents, including four involving vehicles trapped in rising waters.

The station’s first call saw a van enter fast-flowing floodwater at Chilfrome.

Rapid response crews secured the scene until a specialist wading team from Bridport Fire Station could safely recover the driver.

Later in the day, the A37 at Stratton was reported “completely full to the brim” with floodwater, highlighting the continuing challenges facing local roads.

The A37 at Stratton. (Image: Maiden Newton Fire Station)

A warning is in place for tomorrow, Thursday, as another Yellow rain alert has been issued.

Residents are urged to monitor weather forecasts and avoid travelling through flood-affected areas.

The station reminded drivers that rivers can rise rapidly, particularly when the ground is already saturated.

The station’s response comes as its potential closure – along with stations at Cranborne, Hamworthy, and Charmouth and Ramsbury, Bradford-on-Avon, Wilton and Mere in Wiltshire – has prompted an outpouring of support from the community.

In a separate statement, Maiden Newton Fire Station acknowledged the messages, saying: “We appreciate these messages and your support very much, but we are not able to comment or reply to some of the questions at the moment.

“As soon as we have more information we will share it and will provide details about the public consultation process.”

The fire authority will meet on February 10 to discuss the station closures, and, if members agree, a 13-week consultation will take place, with a final decision due on June 30.