THE fire service in Sherborne has praised a man who has just marked 30 impressive years of service.

Simon Gillet first started his career at Sherborne Fire Station on October 5, 1995.

Fast-forward to 2025, and he has since racked up 10,958 days protecting Dorset residents alongside his brave colleagues.

In that time he has taken on various roles – from firefighter, to leading firefighter all the way to crew manager, watch manager and from August 1 2018, station commander.

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The fire station said the most memorable fires he has been involved in are the Cross Keys fire of 1998, the Exeter City centre fire in 2016 and the fire in Wareham Forest in 2020.

“A massive thanks to Simon and his family for his dedicated commitment and sacrifice to the local community,” a fire station spokesperson said.

More firefighters like Simon are needed to help keep our communities safe.

Roles are now up for grabs at Sherborne Fire Station. Anyone interested in a paid part-time role that offers a rewarding challenge should click here or visit the station on a Wednesday evening from 7pm to 9.30pm to speak to the crew.