A retained firefighter has retired after over 30 years of service covering the Penrith area and further afield. 

Mike Wills was presented with his retirement axe from the chief fire officer in front of his family, with firefighters from all over Cumbria in attendance. 

Mike has bravely responded to thousands of local incidents over his tenure, including Cumbria's major flooding events in 2015 and 2009. 

Throughout his career, he was known for his selfless dedication to others and always willing to lend a hand.

Mike first took up a role in the service at the age of 33. 

"I started basically when my parents were involved in a car accident; they had to be cut out by fire crews up in Ayrshire. 

"There was a recruitment in November that year; I applied and got a start. It gave me a push to actually join - I just wish I had joined sooner," he said. 

For Mike, firefighting was not just a job; it was also a friendship. 

News and Star: Penrith retained/on-call crew around 2000. Penrith retained/on-call crew around 2000. (Image: Mike Wills)

"It's a hobby as much as it is a job. Once you're in, you're in. 

"My colleagues have become friends. You have to rely on each other, it's the nature of the job - it's a crew he said. 

As Mike embarks on a well-deserved retirement, he looks forward to a new chapter in his life. "I'm looking forward to spending more time with family and friends.

"When you're on call, you can't go far, so I'm looking forward to going away for more weekends with friends," he said. 

Penrith fire station manager, Scott Cameron, praised Mike's contributions.

“Mike has responded to thousands of incidents in the Penrith and wider area over the last 30 years, always doing so with a smile and an excellent attitude.

"Mike will be a huge miss to the crew at Penrith.

"He has had an impressive 30 years on call serving his community with a positive attitude.

News and Star: Retained firefighter Mike Wills in his earlier days. Retained firefighter Mike Wills in his earlier days. (Image: Mike Wills)

"He has always provided mentorship to the newer firefighters and even inspired his son Jonny, who currently works in the training department, to join.

“I would like to thank Mike on behalf of the fire service for 30 years of dedicated service and also thank Mike’s family and friends who have supported him throughout his career when his missed birthdays and other important events while going out to protect his community.

“We wish him all the best in his retirement," he said. 

Ever thought of becoming an on-call firefighter?

Live or work within 5 minutes of one of Cumbria’s fire stations?

Then follow the link below and register an interest in Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service- www.oncallfire.uk/