Last drill for longest-serving firefighter

Russell Gooderham spent more than 41 years responding to emergencies as an on-call firefighter around his day job and family commitments

A firefighter who has spent four decades responding to emergencies has attended his last drill night and signed off from his duties.

One of Cambridgeshire's longest serving firefighters, Russell Gooderham, has retired from his role of watch commander at Kimbolton Fire Station, near St Neots.

The 62-year-old said there been many changes during his 41 years, but he had had a great career and did not regret a single minute.

Chief Fire Officer, Matthew Warren, said: "To give this length of service is a phenomenal achievement... we thank Russell for his dedication and also thank his family for their huge support over last four decades."

"Retirement will hopefully allow me to travel more and finish my garden landscaping... I also enjoy fishing, which I intend to do more of," said Mr Gooderham

At a retirement party, the crew presented Mr Gooderham with a firefighter figurine as well as a mounted silver axe.

He said: "The crew around me have been a great support over the years. I have been lucky enough to serve with some fantastic people, many I remain friends with.

"My family have also offered me and the station fantastic support.

"I have seen many changes over 41 years. Equipment is the biggest thing with advances in breathing apparatus and rescue equipment, as well as the protective kit that we wear."

Mr Gooderham was one of more than 200 on-call firefighters across Cambridgeshire, who respond when they are needed to emergencies.

They carry a pager that goes off when they are needed.