A couple of years ago Smethwick police defeated Smethwick fire service in a tug of war competition, and it has rankled with the fire lads ever since. Now, Smethwick fire station commander Steve Husbands has thrown down the gauntlet to the police to defend their title and Inspector Massey, on behalf of the police, has agreed to get a team up to take on the challenge.

Battle lines are due to be drawn on the old bowling green at the front of Lightwoods House on bank holiday Monday at the Mayday festival at the conclusion of the Sandwell Strongest Man competition, at around 2pm. So, if you favour a fireman or want to cheer on a copper… give them a shout… all together now….Heeeeeeeeeave!