WITH reference to the letter of Mr P Williams (Firefighters made me late for appointment, Postbag, July 13).

We recently, as a family, had a visit to the Taunton fire station as it was a wish of our terminally-ill foster son, who loved the fire brigade.

The men of Red Watch showed us around on our son’s 10th birthday. 

They gave us a tour of the engines, let Adam try out the hoses and even gave him a birthday cake and a real firefighter’s helmet. He was absolutely thrilled. 

Sadly we lost Adam at the beginning of June, so we approached the fire brigade to ask if it was at all possible for them to act as Adam’s pall bearers, which they gladly agreed to do. 

On the day, in their own time and in full uniform, Red Watch carried Adam in his fire engine coffin with dignity and compassion, an act which went beyond the call of duty, and for which we are eternally grateful.

This is why I read with disbelief as your reader complained about the fire fighters cutting down trees in front of the station. 

READ MORE: LETTER: 'Firefighters made me late for appointment'

How does he know they weren’t doing this on their own down time? 

Surely, instead of costing the taxpayer, it would be saving them as, if left, the council would have to fell the trees.

These brave men and women come to our aid in emergencies and work tirelessly and professionally to help us in all situations. 

We, as a family, applaud the firefighters of Taunton and we should all be proud of these dedicated people who serve our community.

MR AND MRS G BOWDEN
Bishop’s Hull
Taunton