Crews blaze trail to Nablus

TWO fire engines were setting off from the Scottish Parliament today to drive to the Palestinian city of Nablus.

They are carrying fire and rescue equipment, including 150 sets of kit, 80 pairs of boots, 80 helmets and breathing apparatus, for the Palestinians.

Five firefighters are travelling with the appliances, which were donated by the Fire Brigades Union. They aim to reach Nablus in the northern West Bank in less than a fortnight.

SNP MSP Sandra White, convener of the parliament’s cross-party group on Palestine, said: “These engines will bring enormous benefit to the people of Nablus and the West Bank.

“There are still extremely limited resources and equipment in Palestine.”