Daring Duncan's Decision

Grabbing a fire extinguisher, the 34-year-old mechanic rushed to the aid of his neighbour, who had fortunately managed to evacuate everyone from the house.

"I ran up the stairs but was pushed back down by the heat and smoke, I tried going back with a wet tea-towel but it was no good.

"The fire brigade were so quick, what a team!"

Realising how tragic the house fire could have been, and how inadequate he was without proper equipment or training, Duncan, from Guildford Road, Rustington, contacted East Preston fire station commander Jon Mays to find out about joining.

Commending Duncan on his bravery, Jon said: "Although what Duncan did was a very courageous thing to do, from a fire service point of view, we would never like anyone to go into a building which is on fire.

"We teach people to get out, call the fire brigade and stay out."

Duncan's wife, who works as a district nurse, was right behind his decision to become a retained firefighter.

"She thinks it's a brilliant thing to do," he said.

Jon invited Duncan for an informal interview and he told him all about the job, the training and the entry requirements.

"I am delighted that Duncan has taken the initiative to come and see us. He has decided to put something back into the community and we welcome him with open arms," said Jon.

As long as Duncan's interview with the West Sussex Fire Brigade is successful and he passes the various eyesight and fitness tests, he can begin his two-year training programme.

Feeling a mixture of nerves and excitement, Duncan said: "I know it is going to be hard work but it's so worthwhile and I love helping people."

If you would like to become a retained firefighter, Littlehampton, East Preston and Arundel fire stations would like to hear from you.

You can either call in at the stations on Monday evenings between 7pm and 9pm, contact your local station or log on to wsfb.co.uk for more information.