A second-generation firefighter has retired following nearly 30 years’ service at Soham Fire Station.

Alan Fuller, 64, said he did not need give it much thought on joining the on-call station at the age of 34 when he worked at local employer Fyson’s Engineering.

He said: “Fyson’s policy at the time was to always let three people be trained as firefighters and then be released from work to attend calls.

“My friend at the time told me it was my turn to be trained and as my father and uncle had both been firefighters there, I didn’t think much of it.

“It was a social thing back when I first joined. It was fun and I already knew a lot of the people who were serving at the station.”

The day after Alan completed his training in 1984, Cambridge experienced one of its biggest ever fires to date – and Alan worked the job.

He said: “The fire at Ridgeon’s was a big job with 25 fire engines there. All the boys on the pump were buzzing and really excited and I just assumed it was always like that. The next day, we had a seven pump barn fire, so that was a pretty big one as well. It was certainly a busy start to my career

“We have had some good fun and many memorable nights at Soham Fire Station and it’s been a joy and pleasure working there.”

Alan, of The Butts, is co-owner of Soham business, Prelude Fabrications with his friend and former fellow retained firefighter, Mick Galley – who retired in April.

Station commander Martin Ockenden said: “Alan has embraced many changes in the service and has shown great love and dedication to his role. We thank him for his devotion and enthusiasm over the years and wish him all the best for the future.”

Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service is now recruiting at Soham and other on-call fire stations across the county. To find out more about this challenging and rewarding role visit www.cambsfire.gov.uk.