Firefighters showcased their rescue skills in Croydon today.

Shoppers in the town centre watched in fascination as firefighters used specialist cutting equipment to rescue people from smashed up cars in a simulated traffic accident.

Firefighters also offered road safety advice for passers-by.

Crew manager Daniel Foster said: “London Fire Brigade is called to about ten road traffic accidents every day which is why it’s vital to have regular opportunities to practice our rescue skills.

“Croydon shoppers will get front row seats to this unique spectacle, as our crews use hydraulic equipment to cut up the cars and rescue people from inside it.”

The rescue took place at North End, the area between the Whitgift Centre and Centrale, at 11am and the event will be on until 3pm.