TEIGNMOUTH Fire Station said farewell to long serving firefighter Steve Collins.

Posting this picture on Facebook his colleagues said: ‘We said farewell to Steve Collins on his final training night.

‘Another highly valued colleague of our team leaving after 31 years service at Teignmouth and wider community.

‘Steve you will be missed by the team and we thank your wife Tracey and sons Matthew, Micheal and Jamie for supporting and sacrificing time with you to serve our community.’

Among the many comments were

I will miss seeing you there! Enjoy retirement from DSFRS, you gave up your time and made a difference to the community of Teignbridge.

James Tribble

Congratulations Steven Collins! A top man, and a great firefighter.

Matt Radford

It has been a pleasure to serve with you Steve for the last 31 years well deserved retirement enjoy your free time.

Richard Stonelake

Thankyou for being there for families and businesses in trouble and putting your family time aside to do so. Thanks. Enjoy your retirement with your family xx

Lin Bowman

Many congratulations Steve, you can take your socks off in bed tonight, relax and enjoy retirement from DSFRS, well earned.

Gareth Sydenham

Most excellent Steve. Congratulations mate. Fantastic achievement.

Tony Heywood

Enjoy a pager free lifestyle Steve, always a pleasure to work alongside, all the best from us all at Buckfastleigh.

Guy Watkin