THIRTY firefighters battled to save "casualties" after after a train, bus and car "crash" in Cambuslang.

The disaster was a simulated one to help test trainee recruits at the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service training college.

Volunteers from British Red Cross played the role of walking wounded and those fighting for their lives and also helped provide emergency trauma care to those 'wounded.'

The scenario, which saw dozens of 'casualties' fleeing the vehicles and others trapped inside, unfolded from 9.30am.

A spokesman for the fire service said the mock event helped prepare firefighters for the "wide-range of emergencies faced by today’s service."

Deputy Chief Officer Alex Clark said: “When I joined as a firefighter almost 30 years ago we responded to fires. The role today is so much bigger.

“Our new recruits will go on to respond to road traffic collisions, water rescue, rescue from height, urban search and rescue and of course deliver our vital prevention work that reduces the chance of incidents.

“Their role and that of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service will continue to expand as we work to improve the safety and wellbeing of our communities.

“We have recently joined forces with the Scottish Ambulance Service to help save patients who suffer out of hospital cardiac arrest. This is another example of our firefighters saving lives across Scotland.”

He described the facilities at Cambuslang as "the best in Britain" and said they were key to helping develop the skills of firefighters across Scotland.

He added: "Our trainee firefighters will soon be joining our highly-skilled crews across the country where they will continue to develop their skills and knowledge.

“These recruits represent our commitment to the safety of the people of Scotland."