YORK'S £2.3 million fire station has been officially opened by VIPs, including the Queen's representative, who watched fire fighters in action in their new home.

The Kent Street base replaced the former premises in Clifford Street earlier this year.

The old station was pensioned off after being flooded in November 2000 and again in 2012.

The new HQ offers new training and community facilities complete with traditional touches - including a fireman's pole.

The Lord Lieutenant of North Yorkshire Lord Crathorne performed the opening ceremony joined by fire authority bosses, dignitaries and local school children.

Prizes were handed out to the youngsters who took part in an art competition as part of the project.

The VIPs were given a tour of the building, were shown over the 999 vehicles, and watched demonstrations by fire fighters.