ONE ancient measure that is not under threat is the good old British pint. And plenty of those are due to be supped at York fire station.

This is an innovative way to raise brigade morale: hold a beer festival on the premises. In a change from quenching raging fires, officers will be quenching raging thirsts.

It sets the mind racing. Will critical beer lovers accuse the brigade of watering down their pint? If the firefighters get their pumps mixed up, will they end up dousing a blaze with best John Smith's? And if the festival is a success might they establish their own pub - the Hose and Crown?