A fire crew watch commander, who began his career at Soham station, is retiring after more than 20 years in the service.

Rob Cowling, who most recently held a role with Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue fire protection team, retired after serving nearly 24 years.

Colleagues from across the county gathered to wish him all the best at a retirement presentation, where he was given a special figurine by area commander Chris Parker.

Rob started his career in Soham as an on-call officer, before joining the London Fire Brigade based at Knightsbridge,

Rob transferred to Cambridgeshire and has served at Soham, Cambridge, St Neots, Stanground and Huntingdon, before returning to Cambridge as a fire protection officer.

Rob said: “To those friends and colleagues, who are still serving, thanks for sharing my journey. I’ve done a job I have loved for nearly 24 years.

“I’ve come to work every day with a smile on my face, have given it my best, worked with some fantastic people and made life-long mates along the way.

“For me, the job was a way of life. It’s not an understatement to say it’s the best job in the world and a job that many people would love to do. I’ve managed to do it and lived the dream.”

Rob is excited to enjoy retirement with his family and is looking forward to perusing his passion for photography and keen interest in film critiquing.

Chris Parker said: “Rob has been a great support to many people, including myself, during his career. His measured approach and positive outlook has been so useful to draw on during his time and is something that many people, especially me, will certainly miss.

“We all wish Rob and his family the very best for the future.”

Reflecting on his career, Rob said: “Over the years I have seen many changes, including technology, equipment and the way incidents are managed. However the fundamentals for me haven’t changed.

“A call for help from a member of the public, in an emergency or a fire safety concern, we will turn up and every person involved will do their best to help.”