A recruitment drive for firefighters in Kent has seen 22 join the force - out of a staggering 5,000 applicants.

A former police officer, a financial advisor and even an England rugby player are among 19 men and three women to be assigned to stations in the county after going through assessments including problem solving, situational awareness and interviews.

The push for more staff was the first to be launched in a decade when it was announced last year.

Scroll down for video

The firefighters had to endure a 15-week "intensive training course" which looked at firefighting techniques, working safely at a height and in tight spaces, using breathing apparatus and dealing with crashes.

One of the new recruits, 27-year-old Emily Say, said: "After leaving school, I went to university got a degree and worked in the city as a change analyst.

"But I always knew my heart belonged somewhere else, where I can come home from work knowing I’ve made a difference.

"Whether fighting a fire or keeping people safe by fitting a smoke alarm, I’m so excited to be able to help the people of Kent and Medway. It’s a dream come true."

Meanwhile 24-year-old Nathan O’Donnell, who used to be a freelance copywriter, said he wanted to get away from doing the same thing every day.

“While working as a writer I found each day was more or less the same," he said.

"I wanted to work in a job where I could make a difference to people’s lives, be part of a team and have a real sense of purpose and pride in what I did.

"When KFRS advertised, I knew I’d always regret it if I didn’t apply.

"I put as much effort into every stage of the recruitment process and haven’t looked back since."

Kent Fire and Rescue Service chief executive, Ann Millington, said: "I’d like to congratulate our new trainee firefighters on passing their initial training.

"They have chosen to dedicate their lives to working for the people of our county and we know throughout their careers they will face very real challenges that will test them as people.

"However we know that because of their courage, compassion and skills they will be involved in life-saving missions that will bring great job satisfaction and pride.

"We thank them for joining KFRS and wish them the very best in their career.

"It is also very important to thank their families, as they too will very much be supporting our firefighters throughout their time with us."

The recruitment process cost the service £4,425.

It is not known how much the training cost but as spokesman confirmed it was conducted by on-duty staff.