A FIREFIGHTER is seriously ill in hospital after collapsing during training. 

He was on the fourth day of breathing apparatus training when the incident occurred, the Fire Brigades Union said today. 

The man was taken to hospital from the Maresfield Training Centre last Thursday and remains there today (Thursday July 2). 

The training has been stopped while the incident is investigated. 

Matt Wrack, FBU general secretary, said: “Our immediate concern is with our member and his family and we are doing everything possible to provide support at this incredibly difficult time.

"We are of course hoping very much that he makes a full recovery and our thoughts are with him and his family.

The FBU said East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service (ESFRS) had initially refused to stop the training but did so at the union's request. 

Mr Wrack added: "East Sussex fire authority has shown a disregard for firefighter safety in the past. We will make every effort to reveal the circumstances of this tragic incident.”

An ESFRS spokesman confirmed the firefighter had been taken ill, adding: "South East Coast Ambulance Service attended and our colleague is now under medical care in hospital.

"Our thoughts are with our firefighter and we are supporting his family through this difficult time. 

"We are taking this matter very seriously and have set up a joint investigation with the Fire Brigades Union to investigate the circumstances of this event.

"No further details will be released at this stage."