Fire stations could close and 140 firefighters lose their jobs if the Government cuts £2m from the fire authority's spending plans.

That is the warning from Hereford and Worcester Combined Fire Authority, which is appealing a decision to cap its budget for the coming year.

It says that losing £2m from the budget, which has risen by 29.4 per cent, could have serious consequences. It is hoping taxpayers will support the appeal.

Richard Udall, chairman of the authority, said this was the amount needed to provide a 24-hour service.

He said: "If the Government does not allow our appeal, the saving to the average council tax payer will amount to about £7 a year, or just 2p a day. However, the effect on the service will be catastrophic.

"I'm sure the majority of the council taxpayers do not begrudge us 2p a day to save the service."

The fire authority will meet in public at County Hall, Worcester, on Wednesday (May 18) to lodge its appeal.

West Mercia Police, which has been warned it may be capped next year, will also meet on May 18 to discuss its response to the Government.