1140THERE are not many people who can claim they have fulfilled two childhood career ambitions by the age of 30.

But former Wanderers player Andy Mason has already enjoyed every young boy's dream - a 10-year career in the ranks of professional and semi-professional football, and has just qualified as a firefighter.

The 29-year-old joined the Whites in 1993 and played for them for almost four years, before transferring to Hull City.

He also went on to play for several teams including Leigh RMI, Macclesfield and Chesterfield and still appears as a striker for Unibond League First Division side Chorley.

The former Thornleigh School pupil, who lives in Astley Road, Harwood, recently completed his initial basic training course at the GMC Fire and Rescue Service Training Centre in Manchester.

Andy, now stationed at Bolton Central Fire Station, described his training as "intense".

The 16 week training programme covered subjects such as the use of breathing apparatus, first aid, hydraulics, chemistry, physics, building construction and basic fire safety.

Mr Mason, who lives with his wife Wendy and three year-old son Jamie, says his change in career holds more prospects and security than a career in football. He said: "Firefighting will offer my family more security. Obviously in football the security only comes when you're at the top end of the game.

"It's definitely different to football, but the fire service is an ideal environment for me and involves a lot of team work - and that's something I'm definitely used to.

"I'm relishing my new position. It's something I always wanted to do and I'm looking forward to the many challenges it will bring."

Andy admits that he is lucky to have achieved both ambitions, but puts it down to hard work.

He said: "It's particularly difficult to get in the fire brigade and I've been trying for a good few years.

"The process is very demanding and my family are really pleased that I've made it."

Andy's football commitments are now second to his new career as a firefighter, and he admits that the beautiful game is now "just a hobby".

He added: "I'll only keep playing as long as it doesn't interfere with my work. Firefighting comes first."