Bolton firefighters observe silence in memory of dead

The memorial day honours firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

The minute’s silence took place on the forecourts of fire stations and other fire and rescue service workplaces, with many of the 54,000 fire and rescue service employees participating.

Andy Bolton, watch manager at Bolton Central Fire Station, from Wigan, spoke to The Bolton News about the importance of remembering and how it always hits him when a fireman dies.

The 39-year-old said: “Yes it’s very important to remember. Even when you didn’t know a colleague, it still strikes.”

Phil Dearden, crew manager, from Farnworth, also highlighted how important it was to remember.

The 51-year-old said: “I’ve been in the service 26 years, but it’s always important to remember.

Firefighters' Memorial Day is observed by stations nationwide.

“You saw people walking past on the street, they don’t know why we’re stood there, so it’s good to let people know.”

On fellow firemen who he didn’t know dying, he added: “It’s a brotherhood.”

Members of the community, local politicians and families of fallen firefighters may have also been in attendance at the minute’s silences around the country.

Fire Brigades Union general secretary Matt Wrack said:

“This a huge moment of unity for us all as we come together to remember the courage and sacrifice of fallen firefighters.

“We must make sure the firefighters who died protecting their communities are remembered and honoured.”

He added: “We are proud to commemorate those have who come before us and to recognise their sacrifice and their contribution to the safety of people in our communities.”

Ben Norman, Deputy Chief Fire Officer of Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: “May 4th is national Firefighters’ Memorial Day, and it is an opportunity for everyone to remember all the firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

“The day honours the bravery and sacrifice of the firefighters we have lost and acknowledges the courage and dedication of all firefighters, including those who serve our communities today."

He added: “At Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service we marked the day by flying flags at half-mast as well as taking part in a minute silence at midday.

"Our firefighters are hardworking and dedicated members of the community and it’s fitting that we have a day that we can give our thanks and remember those we’ve lost.”

Bolton has previously been hit by tragic deaths of firemen in the line of duty, including Graham Hughes, who died in 2003.

READ: Fireman dies after putting out blaze.

Mr Hughes collapsed after tackling a grass fire at Seven Acres Country Park in Breightmet, later passing due to what was a suspected heart attack.