A veteran firefighter and keen sportsman is retiring after 32 years of service across Hertfordshire.

Trevor Ray, 53, from London Colney, was born and raised in St Albans and started his career at Watford Fire Station in 1984.

He worked at Watford for 10 years before going on to work at Borehamwood, Potters Bar and St Albans Fire Stations.

Mr Ray said: “I will still be associated with the fire service and help out when I can. I’ll also be doing part time health and fire safety work with some friends of mine, on a part time basis.

"I’m also hoping to play a bit more golf and go on more holidays. I’ll be working with London Colney Football Club too, which will be great.”

Over the 32-year career, Mr Ray has seen many tragic incidents and assisted many people. He has been at the scene of road traffic accidents and educated the community in fire safety advice.

Mr Ray retired as Watch Commander at the city's White Watch on August 30.

The keen sportsman said he would still be helping his former colleagues, as well as helping at sports clubs.

Leslie Jones, Station Commander for Dacorum and St Albans District, said: “As well as being an excellent firefighter, Trevor was a keen sportsman and represented the fire service in football, rugby and cricket.

“He will be greatly missed and we all wish him the best for whatever the future holds.”