Ambassadors from community and faith groups across the district were invited to the launch of the ‘side by side’ campaign at the new Watford Fire Station.

More than 50 people attended to the initiative's launch, which aims to build relationships between the fire service and community groups.

Jon Smith, district commander for Watford and Three Rivers, said: “It's about people from different backgrounds with different beliefs and religions embracing each other and working together to create a safer, healthier and generally more prosperous district.

Mike Perham, who became the youngest person to sail around the world this year officially launched "side by side" by talking about his trip and encouraging others to follow their dreams.

Keith Emsall, executive member for community safety and culture, said: “The Fire Service is about so much more than fighting fires and this initiative provides opportunities for the Service to reach even more people with community safety initiatives.”