A firefighter is preparing to retire after more than 30 years battling blazes.
Watch manager David Jones, of Harrow fire station, in Uxbridge Road, was recently presented with a long-service award by London Fire Brigade after a career saving lives.
Mr Jones was honoured at a ceremony at the brigade's training centre in Southwark.
He has worked at Harrow Fire Station for three years following stints at Northolt, Ruislip, Heston, Wembley and Kensington fire stations.
He said: "It's amazing how fast 30 years pass by.
"I began my career at Harrow fire station and it's ironic that I ended it at the same station."
The award was made by Her Majesty's Lord Lieutenant of
Greater London Sir David Brewer, and in front of London Fire Commissioner Ron Dobson and other brigade members.
Mr Jones has also been part of a team that staged road traffic accidents and first aid scenarios for exhibitions and open days
He said: "I'm just as keen now as I was when I was a raw recruit in 1978. It is a great job and I will be sad to leave it.
"I've met many friends in this job too. It's been an honour and an immense pleasure to work for the London Fire Brigade and I highly recommend it."
The Hillingdon resident was originally persuaded to join the brigade by his twin brother and he has never looked back.
