Firefighters from Balmossie and people from the communities the fire station serves have fought a determined campaign against the plan, which was vetoed by the Fire and Rescue Board last year.

A spokesman for the campaign told the Guide & Gazette: "The total number of responses available to us to date is approximately 5,000 compared to about 1,500 last time."

He maintains that this is indicative of the strong feeling of those who live in the area.

He continued: "This is quite a phenomenal number, as it is nearly 20 per cent of the population of the catchment area of the station."

He also confirmed that there will be a march through central Broughty Ferry as a finale to the campaign.

It will take place on Saturday, March 20, meeting at 12.30/12.45 p.m. at Broughty Ferry Harbour, adjacent to Castle Green. The march will commence at 1 p.m. prompt.

The route is through central Broughty Ferry and the it will end at St Aidan's Hall for a rally. The march will be led by the Mains of Fintry Pipe Band and will take about 30 minutes.

Matt Wrack, general secretary of the Fire Brigade Union, will be in attendance and will speak at the rally along with other high profile speakers.

The spokesman said: "It is to be a family occasion, so please bring friends, relatives, and children. Members of the public are especially welcome.

"Please try to come along and give your support to the finale of the campaign. The last march was a great success and with your help we can all make it an even bigger one.

"Let's send out as clear a message as possible that we want to keep full-time cover at Balmossie!"

Campaigners extended thanks to everyone who has taken the time to sign letters of response.