FIREFIGHTERS in Newton Abbot said a fond farewell to their long serving station commander. 

Scott Leaman clocked up 36 years with Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service but has made the ‘difficult decision’ to hang up him helmet.

During a distinguished career which started aged 18, Scott worked up through the ranks as both an on call firefighter and whole time. 

He retires after serving as station commander at Newton Abbot and station manager of several other stations in his wholesome role. 

His colleagues said he has spent his life ‘operationally dedicated to protecting his local community in Newton Abbot’

He also worked to develop and train thousands of firefighters from all over the UK, and internationally, in the proficient use of Breathing Apparatus as an instructor. 

Scott also spent some years years as both a firefighter and a crew manager as a member of blue watch at Danes Castle fire station in Exeter.

As his final drill night, the crew from Newton Abbot presented him with his retirement axe, and a statue of two firefighters in BA. 

Scott has also received cards, gifts and messages from people across the service. 

He thanked his family for all the years of support they have given him when he has had to miss birthdays, weddings, days out and all manner of social events in order for him to keep the appliances available and the community safe.

In line with Newton Abbot fire station tradition, at 23.40, pagers were set off and Scott responded to the station for the final time. 

The crew lined the station and applauded him in recognition for all he has done in his 36 years. 

Scott was taken home at midnight in convoy with all three appliances for his farewell journey.

A Newton Abbot fire station spokesman said: ‘Scott was a huge part of our station and the wider service. ‘His absence will leave a huge hole at Newton Abbot that won’t be soon filled. 

‘Thank you for all the years of tireless and dedicated service, you will be sorely missed by us all.’