End of a firefighting dynasty

HATS off . . . Green Watch bid farewell to Norman Stott

WATCH Commander Norman Stott is hanging up his helmet after 34 years as a fireman.

And his retirement from Oldham station on Saturday marks the end of a 62-year association between his name and the fire service.

That’s because Norman followed in the footsteps of his late father, also called Norman, who spent 30 years with the brigade in Oldham.

The pair even attended some of the same incidents when Norman was a new recruit at Chadderton station and his father was at Oldham.

Norman attended South Chadderton School and worked in the building trade before becoming a fireman.

His first post was at Chadderton before moving to Werneth, the newly-opened Hollins station, Philips Park and Heywood, where he was promoted to station officer. He then transferred to Oldham and has remained with Green Watch for 24 years

“I am very thankful to the fire brigade because it has given me a profession I can be proud of and proud of serving,” said the 54-year-old. I have enjoyed every minute because it is a very fulfilling job.

Norman, who lives in Moorside, is married to Joseline, a teacher, and they have three children: Sarah-Jane (24), Daniel (22) and Samantha (19). He is now looking forward to pursuing his interests of walking, running and mountain biking, and also learning to ski.

County Fire Officer Barry Dixon and Deputy Borough Commander Kevin Talbot made a special presentation at Oldham to honour Norman’s retirement and exemplary service.

Crew Commander Tony Green said: “He has taken raw recruits and turned them into first class fire fighters.”