I WOULD like to reply to Carolyn Hunt's letter (You Say, July 1).

As a firefighter of 22 years standing, my colleagues and I have unfortunately participated in a number of body recoveries, but have accepted this as an unfortunate but necessary job.

I personally feel disgusted, depressed and disappointed by Hereford & Worcester Fire Brigade's management decision not to recover bodies from the Severn.

I feel, as do the majority of junior officers and firefighters at Worcester Fire Station, that we are trained and equipped to do the job.

In addition, we have the moral, ethical, physical and mental capability to achieve an early resolution to some of these recoveries, therefore rendering a humanitarian service to family and bystanders.

This matter should be taken up with the Chief Fire Officer and Combined Fire Authority, not the firefighters.

Is this the beginning of the new "positive framework" which delivers "more effective ways of deploying equipment and personnel"?

If so, then thank John Prescott!

Again, please note we are more than willing to do this job, if only our "powers-that-be" let us.

FIREFIGHTER PUG MOLLOY,

White Watch.

Worcester