HAMPSHIRE fire service could sell its services and expertise to raise cash.

Hampshire Fire and Rescue Authority wants to set up a limited company providing a commercial service to generate funds and offset Government cuts.

Projections are that the scheme could bring in as much as £1.275m a year by its third year, which would be reinvested in core services.

The fire authority said this would not affect the service’s obligations to the public.

The new company would offer services including training, specialist advice and advice on risk analysis to businesses.

The authority is not allowed to provide any of its core services like firefighting and responses to road accidents, fire safety and chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear emergencies on a trading basis.

Services that are currently free will remain free.

The issue will be discussed at today’s finance committee before a final decision by the full authority in February.