Fire service deliver early Christmas present for Clayton West care home resident

A CHRISTMAS wish came true for a blind care home resident who always dreamed of being in the fire service.

The West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service paid a special visit to Stephen Cummings, 60, at the Clayton West care home where he lives.

Senior care assistant Lindsay Nicholson, from Aden Lodge Care Home, contacted Skelmanthorpe Community Fire Station after learning about Stephen’s passion for the service.

Several firefighters visited the home, on Long Lane, to give Stephen and other residents the opportunity to explore a fire engine and firefighting equipment as well as use the hose.

Stephen, who was registered blind when he was born, said: “I always wanted to be a fire man since being a young boy but being blind stopped me. I always wanted to help people.

“From being a young lad, I always visited as many fire stations as I could, even if it was just to let the fire men know how much of a great job they are doing.

“It always put a smile on my face to feel the fire engine and shake the firemen’s hands.

“The visit from the Skelmanthorpe Fire Station officers was such a lovely surprise. I’d like to thank them and Lindsay for organising it.”

Lindsay said: “When I learned about Stephen’s history and his interest in the fire service, I got in touch with the Skelmanthorpe station to see if they could help us surprise him.

“It was a lovely day and there were smiles all around, from Stephen and the other residents.

“We’d like to say a massive thank you to the West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service for giving Stephen an early Christmas present, as we’re sure it’s made his year.”