Shropshire firefighter set to retire after more than three decades of saving lives
A Shropshire lifesaver is retiring after more than three decades of fighting fires.
Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service are bidding a fond farewell to one of its on-call firefighters, Adrian Bowen.
Adrian is retiring after serving 32 years as a firefighter and watch manager at Oswestry Fire Station.
His firefighting career began back in 1992 when a Royal Mail work colleague encouraged him to sign up.
Shropshire has around 288 on-call firefighters, who fit in facing danger in their everyday lives.
Adrian said it was at times hard to manage his firefighting role alongside his role at the post office but feels his success is the result of having a supportive and loving family behind him.
He said his wife, Louise and son, Toby understand the demands of the role, which has enabled Adrian to just focus and respond to emergencies at the drop of a hat.
There have been countless times that a call to emergency has meant Adrian has missed important family occasions. He confessed: “When that pager goes off, I can’t wait to get there”.
Adrian has been described by colleagues as "an unassuming and humble man" with a "can do" attitude.
One recalled a time the firefighter was tasked with climbing to the top of a tower.
They said: "Determined and focused, he made his way up, only to hear a voice crackle over the radio after some deliberation - Turns out, he had climbed the wrong tower! This is a story that still brings a chuckle to those who hear it."
Rob Simcox, Assistant Group Commander for the West said: "We are all sorry to see Adrian leave, he is a genuine and unique person and his dedication and commitment to the fire service has been outstanding, he will be missed."