Hume failings

HAVING served for over 30 years in the fire service, I have been appalled and ashamed of the woeful events unfolding at the fatal accident inquiry into the death of Alison Hume, who died after falling down a mine shaft. Sad to say, this woman and her family appear to have been dreadfully let down by the Fire and Rescue Service, whose personnel seem to have forgotten their prime function: to save life.

It is a pity that there appears to have been no-one from the fire service involved in this incident who had the courage, initiative, leadership and care – qualities that every fire-fighter is supposed to possess – and was able to apply the adage that rules are for the guidance of wise men and the blind obedience of fools.

Perhaps their actions were technically correct. Sadly, morally and professionally, they were wrong and a life was lost.

TONY HIBBERD

Coille Bhrochain

Pitlochry, Perthshire