Three Decades of Dedication Recognised in Service’s Anniversary Year

Speaking on making the transition from an On-Call Firefighter to a Wholetime Firefighter, Paul said:

“The skills and experience I’d gained through my role as an On-Call Firefighter certainly helped me adapt to becoming a Wholetime Firefighter.  There was a much greater structure to daily life on station, and the checks carried out on vehicles and equipment were far more detailed.”

In 2019, Paul returned to Newtown Fire Station as the Station Liaison Officer while also joining MAWWFRS’s Business Fire Safety (BFS) Department In this role, he worked closely with local business owners to help ensure compliance with fire safety legislation and guidance.

In October 2025, Paul was appointed as the Temporary Station Manager of Welshpool Fire Station, which involves overseeing the station’s day-to-day operations, as well as supporting the training, development and performance management of Watch Managers and their teams.

During his career, Paul has attended a number of notable incidents, including the Belgrave House Hotel fire in Aberystwyth in July 2018, several large barn fires, serious road traffic collisions, and a national deployment to London with the High-Volume Pump (HVP).

Reflecting on his 30 years of service, Paul has witnessed significant changes within MAWWFRS, including developments in firefighting equipment, operational practices and the role of the modern Firefighter.

Paul added:

“While we still use much of the same equipment today as we did when I first joined the Service, advances in technology have significantly enhanced the role. The equipment we use at road traffic collisions has evolved to keep pace with developments in modern vehicles, while the introduction of thermal imaging cameras has greatly improved our ability to respond to fires.”

Reflecting on the advice he would give to anyone considering becoming an On-Call Firefighter, Paul acknowledged the commitment the role requires, as well as the strong support network that comes with it.

He said:

“It’s a significant commitment, not just for the individual but also for their family.  However, the Fire and Rescue Service really is one big family.

It’s certainly not a nine-to-five role.  From when you might be called to an incident to the type of incident you attend, no two days are ever the same.  The role is constantly evolving, as are the incidents we respond to.  During my career, I’ve seen a notable shift in the types of incidents we attend, with fewer fires but an increase in medical-related calls.

Overall, it’s an incredibly rewarding role that offers opportunities for personal development while allowing you to be part of a fantastic team.”

30 Years of MAWWFRS

Since its formation in 1996, MAWWFRS has grown into one of the UK’s largest fire and rescue organisations, serving a wide and varied landscape, from rural villages and coastal towns to busy urban cities.

Throughout this time, our teams have responded to thousands of emergencies, championed fire safety and prevention and continually adapted to new challenges with professionalism and resilience.