THE Chief Fire Officer has presented Teignmouth Fire Station’s Watch Manager Gary Holland with a 40-year medal for his amazing commitment and dedication of service to the community.

Gary was due to be presented with his 40 years service medal last year but this was delayed due to Covid.

Gary joined Teignmouth Fire Station on October 1, 1981, following in his father’s footsteps who also served an impressive 31 years at Teignmouth.

His colleagues took to Facebook to say: ‘Gary is a valued of our team and continues to serve as an operational member and Watch Manager of the station.

‘Thank you Gary for the time you have served and continue to serve the community of Teignmouth.

‘We must not forgot to thank Gary’s family who have allowed him to achieve such a commitment and have endured many missed meals and special occasions responding to the needs of our community.

‘Gary, we salute you!’