Ayr man has fought fire for 30 years

May 15 2009

FERGUS RICHMOND has earned the right to put his feet up after saving lives for 30 years.

The Ayr firefighter has hung up his hat after three decades doing the job he loved.

The dad of two was just 20 when he joined the service in 1979.

And during his long career he’s tackled hundreds of blazes and helped save countless lives.

He said: “It’s had its ups and downs like any job, but I’d have to say that it’s the best job in the world.

“I’ve seen some terrible things and been involved in some really difficult situations, but I really wouldn’t have had it any other way. It’s an important job and it’s been great being part of it.”

And if saving lives wasn’t enough for this dedicated firefighter, he spent 25 years representing his workmates as their Fire Brigade Union branch official.

He explained: “I’ve always hated unfairness and I’ve always been able to look at both sides of an issue.

“These attributes has undoubtedly helped with my union duties over the years.”

And Fergus, who lives with wife Anne and has two grown up children, Sarah and Fraser, admits that he’s witnessed plenty of changes over the years.

He pointed out: “There was the introduction of women in the mid 80s and a change in culture away from the ‘this is the fire brigade, not the boys brigade’ attitude.”

Fergus, 51, was also among the union leaders who took on management during the bitter dispute of 2002/3.

He helped front the campaign for improved pay which led to months of strike action and he even stood for election to South Ayrshire Council as part of the Firefighters Against Cuts party.

He recalls: “It was a difficult time for everyone. But we were given fantastic support locally and we’ll never forget that.”

Fergus enjoyed a retirement do with colleagues, friends and family at the Market Inn in Ayr.

He added: “I wouldn’t change my career for the world. I’m going to miss the job and the folk I’ve met and worked with over the years. But it’s time for me to walk away now and leave it to a new generation.”