Cost-saving measures are forcing Kent’s fire service to cease its contract to provide firefighting cover at the Channel Tunnel.

Bosses at Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) say its role at Eurotunnel in Folkestone will end in 2025 after almost 30 years of service due to its “difficulty to cover costs”.

The contractual arrangement with the Channel Tunnel is a separate arm to the organisation’s day-to-day public services.

It provides exclusive round-the-clock fire cover at the cross-Channel rail link.

KFRS chief executive Ann Millington has reassured people that “fire cover and safety will not be compromised” and there will still be a fire station at the tunnel.

She explained: “KFRS’ strong working relationship with Eurotunnel will continue, and firefighters at stations nearest to the crossing, such as Dover, Folkestone and Ashford, will continue to respond to emergencies at the site when called out via 999, in the usual way.

“It's important to reiterate that the Channel Tunnel will continue to have a full fire and rescue team on site, and safety won't be compromised.”

Over the next year, Eurotunnel will consider alternative 24/7 onsite services, to seamlessly align with KFRS’ withdrawal.

A spokesperson for the Channel Tunnel said: “Eurotunnel has received notice from KFRS that they intend to withdraw from the contract to provide private First Line of Response (FLOR) services at the Channel Tunnel next year.

“Eurotunnel thanks KFRS for its service and is exploring alternative FLOR arrangements with other service providers”.