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Fireman in a spin over joke that went ‘too far’

Ailsa Cranna
10/ 8/2006

A RADCLIFFE fireman is waiting anxiously to discover whether he loses his job as a result of a tumble dryer prank which found its way onto the internet.

Andy Bruce, 33, has apologised for the incident after a film showing him being spun in a tumble dryer was sent to fire chiefs.

The Blackley-based firefighter could face the sack after he is interviewed by brigade bosses later this week.

Two other officers will also be questioned, and if the findings are considered serious enough, formal disciplinary procedures will be invoked.

Andy Bruce has confirmed he was the person filmed via a mobile phone, getting into a tumble dryer at work sometime within the last six months.

Since being made public over 20,000 people have watched the video on internet clip sites like www.youtube.com.

He said: "I am the person in the video and I'm very sorry.

"I am fully complying with the internal investigation and until it is finished I can't comment further."

Footage shows him getting into the machine, and packing it with clothes to protect himself.

It is then turned on and he is spun round several times as others laugh hysterically.

As he climbs in, he tells his colleagues: "As soon as I say, let me out."

One officer replies: "Get your head near the front - get yourself forward a bit."

Andy has been a serving officer for four years, and lives in Radcliffe. Colleagues say he is distraught about the row.

One said: "He is a sound bloke, just the kind of person you would want with you on a tough job."

Assistant County Fire Officer Steve Beckley said: "It was a reckless act and stupid act. I was horrified that any of our firefighters would think this was an acceptable practice. The majority of our firefighters are very professional and put their lives on the line every day.

"Any parents who think their children might copy it should advise them that it is a reckless thing to do."

An inquiry was launched after the film was emailed to councillors serving on the Greater Manchester Fire Authority and fire bosses.

Click on the link below to watch the video ...