HE'S been tackling fires across Lancashire for 20 years - but Chorley firefighter Dennis Kirkham still gets a thrill out of helping people.

Dennis, of Water Street, was among a group of Lancashire firefighters to be presented with Long Service and Good Conduct medals at the county's Fire and Rescue Service training centre in Euxton.

The 45-year-old said: "I'm thrilled about the achievement. My father was a firefighter, and so was my eldest brother, so when I got to 25 and was looking for a job with excitement and security, it seemed a natural step to take.

"I enjoy being able to help people who are often in situations where no-one else can help them. As a firefighter, you've got this ability to go to the assistance of people."

Dennis is currently stationed at the Fire and Rescue Service's 'C' Division HQ in Preston, although he has worked all over Lancashire.

The father of three has overcome a slight stammer to enjoy his long career in the fire service. He said: "I think I've proved that someone with a stammer needn't be deterred from applying for a job in the emergency services. You often see teenagers with stammers who think these sort of jobs are closed to them.

"In a way I'm pleased that the fire service gave me an opportunity in the first place, and I hope I've repaid them in some measure with the service I've given."

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