A prominent firefighting figure on the Isle of Wight is to retire in June, more than three decades after signing up.
Steve Apter started his career in Shanklin in 1990, before taking up a full-time role at Newport the following year.
The 54-year-old became the Island's chief fire officer in 2011. In 2016, he took over as London Fire Brigade Deputy Commissioner.
The role saw him tackle incidents including the Westminster Bridge terror attack and the aftermath of the Grenfell Tower disaster.
He returned to the Island two years ago, becoming the deputy chief fire officer of Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service and the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service (IOWFRS).
Both fire services have paid tribute to his work over the years. Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service said:
"Our Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Steve Apter will be retiring in June 2021, after more than 30 years’ service. Steve has been instrumental in both Hampshire and the Isle of Wight’s success and he will be sorely missed by staff across both services."
Congratulations on a fantastic career. One of our own who started off as a retained firefighter on the Island 30 yrs ago. Well done Steve 👍 https://t.co/CygyCPM03s
— Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service (@iwightfire) February 8, 2021
Mr Apter's brother, John, also works in the emergency services and is the current National Chair of the Police Federation.