|
|||||||||||||||
|
|||||||||||||||
|
17th October 2012
BRIDPORT: Farewell to station commander
BRIDPORT'S Fire Service said farewell to one of its longest serving members in a special ceremony held at the fire station.
Crew and chiefs gathered to pay tribute to the 35 years’ service put in by outgoing station commander Nigel Challis who is retiring. The firefighters presented Mr Challis with a new mountain bike and a commemorative plaque before he dismissed the ranks for the last time. His wife Audrey was also commended for the dedication she has shown in support of her husband’s commitment to the service. She received a bouquet of flowers. Handing over the station to the new station commander, Mr Challis told the crews: “I thank you immensely for the support you have given me. I know you will be in safe hands with Nick and I know if you give him half the support you gave me, we’ll be in safe hands.” He described how his overriding memory will be of the camaraderie in the service. He said: “I’ll always remember the rapport, people looking after each other. It’s like a big family of people looking out for one another.” Referring to the dangerous work firefighters routinely undertake, he added: “Well, we have to, don’t we?” Darren Gunter, Chief Fire Officer for Dorset, described Mr Challis as both “personable and professional”. He said: “Providing 35 years’ experience as emergency cover is an extraordinary achievement. “Don’t forget he covered 120 hours a week. That means not having a drink or leaving the town, always being available and on call for all that time. “It’s truly remarkable. He has set a great standard and will be a difficult act to follow. “He not only ran the station well, he was really liked by everyone here. He’s professional and personable and will be missed.” Mr Challis confessed to mixed emotions once the ceremony was complete. He said: “Mixed emotions, yeah. It’s a new ball game now.” PICTURE: Nigel Challis with wife Audrey and the firefighters of Bridport Fire Station
CommentsThere are no comments yet. Be the first to add one below. Add new commentThe code you entered was incorrect, please try again Return to news headlines | |||||||||||||||
 
|
|||||||||||||||
