A FIREFIGHTER has retired after working for more than 30 years at the same station. Paul Riley has worked at Stevenage Fire Station on St George s Way for 31 years, since February 1978, and completed his final shift last week. Speaking about being a full-

A FIREFIGHTER has retired after working for more than 30 years at the same station.

Paul Riley has worked at Stevenage Fire Station on St George's Way for 31 years, since February 1978, and completed his final shift last week.

Speaking about being a full-time firefighter, he said: "It's something I felt I wanted and needed to do. I enjoyed doing what we were supposed to be doing and responding to fires or working at road accidents - doing what we were trained to do."

He added: "I will miss the guys the most really. It's all about teamwork and working together.

"I have met lots of people and I'm still in contact with some 30 years later."

During his career Paul, 50, has worked on the blue, white and green watches and says he has noticed big changes in fire fighting over the years. "The changes have been immense," he said. "Equipment and fire gear has improved greatly."

And Paul isn't ready to put his feet up just yet. He has worked part-time as a lymphoedema therapist at Isabel Hospice in Welwyn Garden City for a while and intends to make his position full-time. "I'll still be working with people and that's the thing," he said. "I'm putting a bit back."

He added: "I would like to thank all my colleagues for their support through the years. They will be missed but its time to move on.