TRIBUTES have been paid to Newton Abbot fire chief Derek Packer.

Mr Packer, aged 92, was Officer in Charge of Newton Abbot Fire Station for around 35 years.

His partner, Marilyn Cockerham, said: ‘Derek served as a Retained Fireman for 45 years, 35 of them as the fire chief at Newton Abbot.

‘It was a way of life for him and his service to the community meant everything to him.

‘He was a lovely and lively man and even at 92 I didn’t expect him to go as he did,’ added Marilyn.

After National Service in the RAF he ran two garages in Newton Abbot before his retirement.

And in retirement he enjoyed his model railways and growing cacti and orchids and taking part in competitions with these.

His funeral service will be held at Parker’s Funeral Directors today, Thursday, December 29 at 2pm.

This will be followed by a private cremation.

His family said: ‘Derek will be sadly missed by Becky, Trevor and the rest of his family.’

Family Flowers only please. Donations, if desired made payable to: British Heart Foundation by retiring collection.