TWO firefighters with nearly 60 years of experience have hung up their hoses.

Arnside Fire Station has said a fond farewell to Clive Gott and Steven Robertson, who have decided to retire from the industry.

Mr Gott, an electrician, joined the station 26 years ago and had his last shift at the fire station on his 55th birthday on January 4.

The Westmorland Gazette: ARNSIDE: FIRE STATION.ARNSIDE: FIRE STATION.

He said he planned to spend more time with his family.

“I joined the fire station when my daughter was six months old and for most of my children’s lives, I have been a firefighter," he said.

“It was tough sometimes as I didn’t know when I would be called out, which could be any time during the day or night, meaning that I could miss birthday parties and other family occasions.

“It was all very tiring too, so I am happy to have retired from it.”

In November, Mr Robertson, who works for the South Lakeland District Council, had also taken the decision towards retirement and left the fire station after joining in 1987.

The Westmorland Gazette: 1987: Steven Robertson (left) joined the fire station in 1987.1987: Steven Robertson (left) joined the fire station in 1987.

He too, is happy that he can now spend time with his family without the worry of being called out.

“It’s been brilliant so far,” Mr Robertson said.

“My wife was wanting to go out during weekends and I told her so many times that I had to stay in as there was a chance I would be called out.

“When my wife said to me that she was sick of it, I thought I better leave.

“It is just so nice that I can go wherever I want now.

“I can get home from work now and take her shopping or whatever and don’t have to worry about being called out.”