Mr Wicker was a retained firefighter and had served the fire brigade for 31 years.

BBC: Marlie Farm depot blast families seek compensation

Away from sport, former retained firefighter David Beardsall has been appointed MBE for services to local government.

BBC: Richard Whitehead in Old Market Square

At a meeting last night Charles Tew, a parish councillor for Brinklow and also a former retained firefighter, said having a crew in the area with local knowledge was invaluable.

BBC: Speculation over Warwickshire fire closures 'unfair'

Retained Isle of Wight firefighter Neil Cole and Jacqueline Rowley, from Eastleigh Friends of People with a Learning Disability, receive the British Empire Medal for work in their fields.

BBC: Scout veteran and Olympians among Hampshire honours

The audit, led by Mr Dalziel in December, looked primarily at firefighter safety in a number of retained stations.

BBC: Grampian fire chief concerns for Highlands fire service