FIREFIGHTERS from across the West Somerset district attended a family party to mark the retirement of long-serving fireman Nick Rich.

The surprise party was held in Nether Stowey Fire Station, in Banneson Road, where watch manager Mr Rich has served the local communities for more than 39 years.

It was attended by Mr Rich’s family and past and present Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue (DSFR) retained firefighters from several neighbouring stations, including Williton, Minehead, Bridgwater, Taunton, and Burnham on Sea.

DSFR Chief Fire Officer Gavin Ellis, who took permanent charge of the brigade last year, was also invited to attend and present Mr Rich with his ceremonial fireman’s mounted axe and a medal of appreciation.

Chief Fire Officer Gavin Ellis addresses a gathering of West Somerset firefighters and family and friends of retiring Nether Stowey watch manager Nick Rich. PHOTO: DSFR.
Chief Fire Officer Gavin Ellis addresses a gathering of West Somerset firefighters and family and friends of retiring Nether Stowey watch manager Nick Rich. PHOTO: DSFR. ( )

A DSFR spokesperson said: “Nick has been a huge part of the fire station along with his family serving a combined 51 years of active duty.

“We would like to express our gratitude for the appreciation Nick has shown to all serving past and present firefighters here at the station.

“Nick’s knowledge and experience will be greatly missed, along with his leadership skills.

“From everybody here at the station we would like to wish Nick all the best in his retirement and we hope he stays in contact with us at the station.

Retiring Nether Stowey watch manager Nick Rich is flanked by firefighting colleagues. PHOTO: DSFR.
Retiring Nether Stowey watch manager Nick Rich is flanked by firefighting colleagues. PHOTO: DSFR. ( )

“Thank you to everybody who made the night so special, and thank you to Hannah Buller for supplying such wonderful food.

“Thank you Nick, enjoy your retirement.”

DSFR watch managers lead a number of small teams at larger incidents.

They can be identified because they wear a white helmet with a narrow bar and have two impellers on their epaulettes.

Watch managers can also be in charge of the watch at larger fire stations and they attend incidents and carry out day-to-day firefighting duties and fire safety work.