Tributes to former town fireman
TRIBUTES have been paid to a “tremendously kind” former Hinckley firefighter who was found dead at work.
Crew manager Paul Wilkens, 47, was found dead on Tuesday morning while on duty at Castle Donington Fire Station.
The father-of-four worked for Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service for 14 years and also served at Hinckley, Central, Western and Wigston stations.
Devastated colleagues at Castle Donington have set up an online fundraising page to support his family.
They paid tribute to their “larger than life” workmate who they affectionately nicknamed ‘TL’ because he was “too loud”.
More than £7,500 has already been raised for his partner Melanie, daughter Poppy, 14, son Albert, 3, and two step-children George, 21, and Ruby, 15.
A tribute from his colleagues on the JustGiving page read: “TL was larger than life itself - you certainly knew when TL entered a room, a party and even an incident.
“He was incredibly positive and tremendously kind. He would do anything for anyone and Paul’s loyalty was unquestionable.
“We are sure everyone who knew TL, or maybe just heard him, will sorely miss him.”
Fire chiefs have also set up a memorial page on Facebook to allow people to pay their respects.
Nick Rushton, chairman of the Combined Fire Authority, said: “On behalf of myself, the vice chair and every member of the Combined Fire Authority, I offer our deepest condolences following the very sad and tragic death of crew manager Paul Wilkens earlier this week.
“I would like to personally thank everyone for the truly admirable way you have all responded to this tragedy.”
Fire Brigade Union (FBU) officials also paid tribute to Mr Wilkens.
Leicestershire FBU official Adam Taylor said: “Paul was a strong, passionate and loyal member of Leicestershire Fire Brigades Union.
“Paul rarely liked to miss out on anything, whether that was a conversation or a party.
“He will be sadly missed by all that knew him.
“Paul’s partner, Melanie and his children, if not now but in time, will hopefully take solace in the fact that he was respected, liked and loved by so many.
“In this time of sadness, I’m certain we will do, what we do best and rally round and support one and other and support Paul’s family where we can.”
The fire service has not yet given any details of how he died.
Visit the official tribute page on Facebook by searching: @PaulTLWilkensMemorial
To donate to the appeal fund visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ Paul-Wilkens