'I've loved the whole thing': County Durham firefighter retires after 25 years
Joe Barford, 50, joined the service at Seaham Fire Station as a firefighter in 2001, aged 26.
He worked as a tree surgeon in his early 20s before he joined the crew, where he has remained for the rest of his career.
Joe Barford, the retiring Seaham firefighter. (Image: County Durham & Darlington Fire & Rescue Service) Throughout his time at the station, he has worked his share of shifts , including Red Watch, White Watch and Day Crewing.
"The years have gone so quickly because I've loved every aspect of the job," Said Joe.
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"I've loved the whole thing and never not enjoyed the job. It will be a big change retiring."
Joe told how the "crew is the best thing about the service" and shared his love for the people he spent his time working with.
Joe (right) with his crewmates at Seaham Fire Station. (Image: County Durham & Darlington Fire & Rescue Service) He is an avid car and fitness enthusiast in his time spent away from the station.
When asked what advice he would give to new firefighters, Joe said: "Put as much effort in as you can because it will pay off.
"The best part of the job is the camaraderie, so enjoy that."
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He is looking forward to spending more family time with his wife, Karon, and his 16-year-old daughter in retirement, as they are jetting off on a holiday to Florida this summer.
Joe won't be far from the station, however, as he has agreed to continue as an on-call firefighter where needed - an extra role he took on nine years ago.
When leaving, he joked: "I'll be back!"
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