A NETHER Stowey firefighter has been presented with a certificate of service after standing down from the role after 31 years.

Paul Buller has loyally served the village as an on-call firefighter for more than three decades.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue’s Doug Farmer sang Paul’s praises, thanking him for his commitment over the years.

“Paul has been ready at the drop of a hat to quickly turn in to Station 67 in Nether Stowey to crew the fire appliance and respond to a variety of emergencies over his long career,” Mr Farmer said.

“When people have required help at their time of need, Paul, along with his colleagues have committed themselves to do what was needed, when it was needed to save life and property.

“I have no doubt that many people are thankful for Paul’s interventions over these years.

“The community of Nether Stowey and the wider community of Devon and Somerset are now without an experienced Firefighter.

“We wish Paul and his family well with their future plans.”

Paul, who is going to start a new career as a lorry driver, was presented with a Certificate of Service and a commemorative plaque by Nether Stowey watch manager Nick Rich.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue is actively seeking members of the community to help out where fire stations are located.

They are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may be able to commit some of their daytimes to help others by responding to emergency call outs.

Those interested are encouraged to look at the recruitment section of Devon and Somerset Fare and Rescue’s website, dsfire.gov.uk.

Mr Farmer added: “Anyone living or working within a five minute response time of Nether Stowey Fire Station may call into the station on a Thursday evening between 7pm and 9pm when they train weekly.

“Any of the team there will be happy to explain what is involved with becoming an on-call firefighter and serving the Nether Stowey community and beyond.

“To quote a phrase – ‘If you can conceive it and you can believe it, then you can achieve it’.

“To anyone thinking that they might like the opportunity to see if the role of an on-call firefighter is for them, I would say, challenge yourself; you could be who we are looking for.

Nether Stowey Fire Station is based off of St Mary Street in Nether Stowey, TA5 1NR.