'I went from working in a chippy to fire fighting'

An on-call firefighter who joined up while working at his sister's chippy and brother's engine business has retired after 24 years.

Glyn Chen, who was based at Chase Terrace in Burntwood, Staffordshire, joined the county's fire service in 2000, shortly after moving to Brewood from Wolverhampton.

He said he was inspired when he saw fire engines driving past him every so often and decided to apply, despite the two jobs he was working.

"I thought of how satisfying that job would be, to make a difference and give something back to the community," he added.

Mr Chen spent 10 years based at Brewood Fire Station before he relocated to Chase Terrace Community Fire Station.

He would fit in his on-call duties around helping his brother with importing and exporting engine components, while also assisting at his sister's fish and chip shop at the weekends.

He said he could be alerted to incidents at any time of day or night, including once when he was about to sit down and eat at a barbecue.

Working with other firefighters and making new friends was one of the best things about the job, he said.

"You're in it together. You build a unique bond and you all join to help others," he added.

A surprise retirement party was recently held for Mr Chen, during which Rob Barber, chief fire officer at Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service, presented him with a ceremonial axe.

"The commitment that Glyn and his family have given to Staffordshire residents is remarkable and I am so very grateful for his service," Mr Barber said.

"Glynn is a credit to the service and we all wish him well for the future."

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