THIS week marks a significant change in the local scene as Paul Gittins, councillor and past Mayor of Bewdley, steps down from the post he has held for 22 years as officer in charge of Bewdley Fire Station.

Paul has served as a firefighter for a total of 34 years. His father was a fireman before him, and his son follows in the family tradition.

Stringent tests govern the appointment of firemen and their training is rigorous and thorough, but until I met Paul I did not realise just what their commitment to the service meant - being called out at all hours of the day or night, to fires, to accidents in the home, to road accidents, and to the many different calls for their help. And then off to their normal day job on top of that.

I feel sure Bewdley people will join me in expressing our grateful thanks and appreciation to Paul for his long service to the community and to take this opportunity to add our gratitude in recognition of all those in the fire service who give their time and many skills for the public good.

PATRICIA PALMER

Stourport Road, Bewdley