Fire service mourns as ‘big personality’ Andy dies on leave
TRIBUTE PAID TO STALWART OF LOUGHBOROUGH GREEN WATCH
A LEICESTERSHIRE firefighter has died suddenly while on leave.
The county fire and rescue service has paid tribute to Andrew Watt, who worked at Loughborough Fire Station for almost 16 years.
Andrew, known as Andy, served in the armed forces in the Staffordshire Regiment, before joining the fire service in August 2006.
Colleagues have described him as a “big personality” and a “very proud man” as they come to terms with the tragic loss.
In a statement yesterday, Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service “It is with great regret that we announce that Firefighter Andrew (Andy) Watt has sadly passed away whilst on leave
“The whole service is devastated and shocked at the sudden and tragic loss of our friend and colleague.
“Joining our service in August 2006, he joined Green Watch at Loughborough Fire Station and worked there for almost 16 years.
“He was a true professional and a real credit to the service. His loss will be immeasurable.
“This is an incredibly difficult time for Andy’s family and we ask you to respect their privacy as they come to terms with their loss.
“We are doing everything we possibly can to support them.
“Likewise, you will also recognise that Andy’s death has had a profound impact on all of our staff.”
Fire services from across the UK have sent messages of condolence on social media.
“The thoughts of all at Surrey Fire and Rescue Service are with Andy’s family, friends and colleagues at this sad time,” said one message.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight sersaid: vice tweeted: “Our thoughts are with Andy’s family and all those at Leicestershire Fire and Rescue following this sad news.”
The Avon service tweeted: “We send our condolences and our thoughts are with Andy’s family, friends and colleagues at this sad time.”
Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “We are deeply sorry to hear about the passing of a colleague.
“Our thoughts are with Andy’s family and friends and everyone at Leicestershire Fire at Rescue.”
East Midlands Ambulance Service added: “Offering Andy’s family, friends and our blue light colleagues our deepest condolences.”