West Sussex firefighter Steve Crockett hangs up his helmet after 42 years of service
From BT worker to firefighting legend
Steve Crockett began his firefighting journey as a retained firefighter with West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service back in September 1980, all while working full-time at British Telecom (BT). Fast forward to 2009, Steve made the leap to a full-time role. He served as a Retained Liaison Officer before moving to the Service Delivery Centre as Watch Manager – a role he’ll keep even after retiring from active duty.
Storm hero and more
During his decades on the job, Steve tackled huge blazes like the Warnes Hotel fire and battled through the chaos of the Great Storm of 1987. He recalls the storm vividly:
“I got my first callout at 12.15am and didn’t get back for 24 hours because of the sheer number of emergencies. I remember crawling on my hands and knees in a flat where the wind was ripping out the skylight and everything inside.”
He also shared how personal protective equipment has come a long way since his early days wearing plastic leggings, heavy water-soaked jackets, thin gloves, and a yellow cork helmet.
Family, fire, and fierce dedication
Balancing his BT job, fire duties, and family life was no mean feat. Steve said:
“It was a juggling act, but I wouldn’t have changed it for the world. My wife Liz and our family have been incredible, dealing with missed events and spoilt dinners because of my calls. Now I’m ready to spend more time with them.”
Steve’s passion clearly runs in the family. His son James joined the retained unit at Worthing in 2013 and went full-time in 2020. James said:
“Growing up, I’d hear my dad’s pager and watch him drop everything to help others. His dedication inspired me. I’m proud to have served alongside him, but now it’s time for him to finally turn off that pager.”
County praises a true local hero
Assistant Chief Fire Officer Peter Rickard saluted Steve’s commitment:
“Steve’s professionalism has touched countless lives, especially in Worthing. Retained firefighters give the most precious thing – their time – to help others. I have complete admiration for Steve’s decades of service.”
Fancy joining the ranks?
West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service is recruiting retained firefighters across the county. Want to step up and serve your community like Steve? Visit their website for more info.
