A Mid Wales firefighter has been celebrated following more than four decades of service to the community of Llanfair Caereinion.

After 44 years of service, Watch Manager at Llanfair Caereinion Fire Station Dai Gwalchmai has hung up his white helmet for the final time, retiring from the Fire and Rescue Service.

Having announced his retirement in October 2024, Mr Gwalchmai was presented with a Certificate of Service by Chief Fire Officer of Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Roger Thomas on Monday, November 11.

In presenting the Llanfair firefighter with the certificate, Mr Thomas said: “I was delighted to present Watch Manager Dai Gwalchmai with his Certificate of Service tonight for 44 years of dedicated service to Llanfair Fire Station and the communities of Powys.

“An incredible career and unparalleled commitment. Thank you from everyone at Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service.”

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Watch Managers lead a number of small teams at larger incidents and usually wear a white helmet with a narrow bar and have two impellers on their epaulettes.

They can be in charge of the watch at larger fire stations, attend incidents and do day-to-day firefighting and fire safety work, work in policy areas and have other specialist duties.

Llanfair Caereinion Fire Station made the announcement that their long-time Watch Manager would be retiring on October 15, during one of their drills with full crew in attendance. But the ever-changing crew also took the opportunity to welcome a new firefighter on the same day, with recruit Rhys Pryce having just completed his initial course.

(Image: Llanfair Fire Station.)

The station said via social media: “Drill last night we took the opportunity of a full crew in attendance for a team photo to mark two occasions.

“Firstly to welcome our newest recruit, Firefighter Rhys Pryce, who has just completed his initial course.

“Secondly, now he's finally put it in writing, to announce Watch Manager Dai Gwalchmai has decided to retire after an incredible 44 years continuous service.”

The Llanfair Caereinion crew will also be holding a retirement function with food and drink to mark the occasion and to celebrate Mr Gwalchmai’s service on Saturday, November 16 at Henllan Caravan Park.