Fireman found hanged

A MOSSLEY firefighter was found hanged by his colleagues in the grounds of Stalybridge Station yesterday morning.

Colleagues tried to revive crew manager Lee Gaunt (41), a father of two. County fire officer Peter O’Reilly said: “We are devastated by Lee’s death. He was an extremely well-liked and popular member of Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and we are utterly distraught he has gone. It has left the entire service in shock.

“We are all so sad and it will take some time to sink in but we are supporting each other as much as we can. In time, through police investigations and the coroner’s process, we will begin to understand what has happened but for now my thoughts are with Lee’s family and all his friends.”

The Fire Brigades Union echoed Mr O’Reilly’s comments.