'Fantastic' firefighter retires after 50 years

A Lincolnshire firefighter, described by his boss as a "fantastic role model", has retired after 50 years in the service.

Alan Maskall started out as an on-call firefighter in Horncastle at the age of 24, before serving as the station's watch manager and later as a driver training instructor in Waddington.

Maskall said he had enjoyed every minute of his career but wanted to spend more time with his family.

"It's truly been a great honour serving the public," he said.

Maskall noted the changes over the years, particularly advances in equipment, technology and techniques.

"In the early days, fire kits were made from plastic and our gloves were basically like rubber garden gloves," he said.

He recalled a large fire at a factory in Louth, which took 30 appliances more than six hours to bring under control.

At the time, he said breathing apparatus was still in its infancy, resulting in crews requiring "medical clearing" following the incident.

Maskall said: "It really does make you thankful for the amazing support we have today, in terms of kit, mental health and well-being, debriefs from incidents, and so on.

"There's lots of things we didn't have, or even consider, when I'd first started, but they are so important."

Maskall also thanked his family for their support.

"I don't think I'd have had the career I've had, for as long as I have, without them fully behind me," he added.

Mark Baxter, chief fire officer, said: "Alan has been a fantastic leader, role model, and servant for Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue and his local community.

"His 50 years with us is a testament to his dedication to public service and giving back to the community that he loves.

"Although it's obviously sad to see him leave the fire service, he'll always be a part of the fire family and I know he'll very much remain a cornerstone within Horncastle."

Listen to highlights fromLincolnshire on BBC Sounds, watch thelatest episode of Look North.

Download the BBC News app from the App Storefor iPhone and iPad orGoogle Play for Android devices