A new joint headquarters for Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS) and trading standards has opened.

The HQ at Quayside House in Gloucester, close to the county council's offices at Shire Hall, was opened by Cllr Dave Norman MBE.

It is hoped the new location will help strengthen collaboration between Gloucestershire County Council and fire and rescue service teams. It will serve as the strategic and administrative hub for GFRS and trading standards.

GFRS will continue to have vital teams located throughout the county. It has 21 stations across the county to ensure frontline firefighters remain prepared for the diverse range of emergencies they face.

GFRS control room - which takes vital 999 calls - as well as fleet, ICT, logistics and resources continue to be based at Waterwells in Quedgeley.

Cllr Dave Norman, Gloucestershire County Council cabinet member for fire and rescue and trading standards, said: "I have been part of our fire and rescue service for the past 34 years, in many different guises. During that time, the headquarters has been in Cheltenham, Waterwells and now Quayside.

"Our fire and rescue service and trading standards team's headquarters will now be situated in the heart of Gloucestershire County Council, as both services are integral to the community safety of the residents we serve.

"I am honoured to formally open this headquarters building for GFRS and trading standards."

Mark Preece, chief fire officer, said: "It is a pleasure to see our headquarters officially opened today. It is a modern, efficient base from which we can continue to serve the people of Gloucestershire. It is an important step forward for the service, as we seek to improve our collaboration with county partners and deliver a more integrated service to the community."