Clitheroe firefighter Dave retires after 35 years

Clitheroe Fire Station's watch manager, Dave McGrath retired from the fire service earlier this month and admitted he was "fortunate" to work in a lovely area.

Reflecting on his memorable days as a firefighter, Dave said: "The time has come for me to retire after 35-and-a-half years service. I joined Lancashire County Fire Brigade in October 1984 to make a difference to the people of Clitheroe, Ribble Valley and at times throughout Lancashire. I’ve been very fortunate to work in a lovely area where people respect their own property and also other people’s property. I’ve had great support from wonderful firefighters and my family throughout my career."

Paying tribute to his hard work and dedication, crew manager at Clitheroe Fire Station, Martin Dobson, said: "WM McGrath has worked tirelessly for over 35 years as an on call fire fighter/officer at Clitheroe Fire Station to ensure the safety of the people of the Ribble valley. It has been an honour to serve with such a dedicated officer and all of us at Clitheroe Fire Station wish Dave and his family all the very best for the future."

Crew manager Glen Dinsdale added: "Dave leaves a huge hole behind at the station. It is now essential that we all continue to pull together and retain the high standards that Dave has implemented over his tenure. Everyone at the station wishes Dave and his family (who have supported Dave in his role for 35 years) a very happy retirement."

Meanwhile, Clitheroe station manager, Pete Ashby, said: "Over the last 35 and half years, Dave has been a fantastic firefighter and manager at Clitheroe Fire Station. He has been a role model for new firefighters at the station, not only with his technical knowledge but also his exemplary conduct. He has set and maintained high standards and will be sorely missed by everyone at Clitheroe Fire Station. We wish him all the best in his retirement.”

The new watch manager at Clitheroe Fire Station is Lee Curwen.