Watch Manager Kev Ellis has retired from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service after 33 years of distinguished service to the Isle of Wight community.
Kev began his career as a retained firefighter in Shanklin back in the late 80s, soon becoming a wholetime firefighter and rising through the ranks over the course of his 3-decade career.
Although he spent a period as the Station Manager of Newport Fire Station and also held the role of Technical Fire Safety Inspector, Kev is best known for his work as an instructor within the service’s training department. He has trained numerous new recruits over the years, as well as teaching the use of ultra high pressure lances.
One of his specialities has been rope rescue.
WM Ellis retired on Wednesday (28th April) and was presented with a small parting gift of local Mermaid Gin by Watch Manager Darren Wood of Shanklin Fire Station. He was also handed a traditional mounted axe by Deputy Chief Fire Officer – and Kev’s cousin – Steve Apter.
Kev has lots of plans for the future with his wife Joanne and daughters Lucy and Molly.
Also retiring this month is Crew Manager Ian Halliday of Ventnor Fire Station.
CM Halliday joined the service in October 1988 and was made up to Leading Firefighter in 1997. He has also served as a Co-Responder in the Ventnor area since 2007, receiving a formal commendation for his quick thinking and courageous actions in saving a life in a threatening situation 3 years ago.
Ian stepped up for a period of time as Watch Manager to keep Ventnor Fire Station fully operational.
Ryde Fire Station has also recently said goodbye to Steven Goodall.
Steve resigned from both his operational post at Ryde and his role as a support technician in the training department to pursue a career in the Isle of Wight Ambulance Service.
