A FIRE chief described as ‘working tirelessly for the people of Portland’ is handing over the reigns today after 20 years of service.

But despite being on call 24/7 and having to book time off just to leave the island, Portland Fire Station Commander Kev Rider said it’s a sad moment because he will miss the camaraderie of his crew members and their passionate team spirit.

He said: “Twenty years is a good landmark and now I think it’s time to move on.

“The trouble is being on call all the time has taken its toll on both me and my family so it’ll be nice to be able to leave the island without worrying about it.”

Last year the Portland retained crew answered 230 call outs – an increase of 50 shouts on average from the previous few years. The crew is required to be within four minutes of the station at all times.

Mr Rider, 51, who works full time as part of the industrial fire brigade at Winfrith Technology Park, added: “The shouts can vary because in Portland you never really know what can happen.

“After all these years it will be weird not having to have quick clothes at the bottom of my bed, and parking my car so I canexit in a hurry..”

As well as thanking the hard work of his fellow firefighters Mr Rider praised his wife Pat, and their daughters Gemma, 21, and Chloe, 17, who have had to put up with his on-call obligation for most of their lives.

Area Commander for Dorset Fire and Rescue Service Ben Ansell paid tribute to Mr Rider.

He said: “Kevin Rider has served at Portland fire station for over 20 years.

“He joined in 1990 as a firefighter and progressed though the ranks.

“During this time he has attended many operational incidents and worked tirelessly for both the fire and rescue service and the people of Portland.

“As the Station Commander he has provide excellent leadership and has been a very positive role model for our firefighters.

“Kevin will be sadly missed.”

Bob Terrey, will take the position of station Commander.

The 38 year-old, who works at Portland Young Offender Institution, said: “Kev wants to hand up his boots so I am happy to take his place.

“It’s great to be part of the community and I am fortunate enough to have a job that allows me to leave when I’m called out and live so close to the station.

“We’ve got a good crew and really enjoy each others’ company and for our families being on call is a way of life.” A party will be held at the station tonight to celebrate the commander’s retirement.