A Christian nicknamed "the vicar in a van" is the latest weapon in Essex Fire Service's campaign to make people's homes safer.

In a ground-breaking new partnership between the fire service and the church, Stephen Rice will visit churches across south Essex to advise vulnerable parishoners on fire safety and smoke alarms.

Mr Rice, from Mersea, is not actually ordained, but spotted an advert for the position while taking part in a lay Anglican training programme.

He said: "My job will involve going to different churches to tell them about the services Essex Community Fire and Rescue Service offer, such fire safety advice and demonstrations.

"Then when the requests come in, I will conduct the home fire safety visits, install smoke alarms and make sure people are as safe as they can be.

"It makes good sense to use the connections the church has with its parishioners to reach out to people who may not otherwise get the help and advice they need.

"I can see it working really well."

Mr Rice is employed by the Anglican Church and will be on permanent secondment to the fire service to carry out his work which he starts work next month.