A firefighter from Uppingham was surprised last night by the High Sheriff of Rutland, who presented him with an award for nearly 40 years' dedication.
"I feel absolutely emotional. Something that I wasn't expecting, would never expect it. Yeah, I've put a fair bit of time in, but that's through choice to serve my community. But to be awarded from the High Sheriff, I mean, that's heart-touching."
Roger Dumford served 39 years and seven months at Ayston Road, along with seven years in Stamford, with support of his employers, Heidelberg Cement, and is appealing to adults who live within five minutes of the station to consider joining the service.

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