Tributes have been paid to retired stalwart Tenby firefighter Martin Hurlow who sadly passed away last week.

Martin served with the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service for over 35 years; retiring back in 2013.

As crew manager at Tenby Fire Station, he was presented with a long service plaque when he retired.

Martin was a popular face around the resort and a familiar fundraising figure during Tenby’s annual summer carnival parades, helping to raise thousands upon thousands over the years for the Firefighters Charity.

Jeremy Lees, current watch manager at the town’s Fire Station said: “The sudden passing of Martin has not only left the personnel of Tenby Fire Station, but also the whole community in a state of shock.

“The vast number of condolence messages and tributes received are testament to the high regard in which he was held within the community, and reflect his personality and popularity.

“Even though Martin retired in 2013, he never really left us and continued to be involved in all our charity and social events.

“He was always a major part of Tenby Fire Station and the memories we all hold will ensure he remains so. God bless you Big Marty, may you rest in peace,” he added.

Deputy Chief Fire Officer for Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service Roger Thomas said: “Martin served for thirty seven years at Tenby Fire Station, from 1976 to 2013, and was a well-respected, popular and friendly character, described often as a ‘Gentle Giant’

“He will be sorely missed within the close community of Tenby.

“On behalf of Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, I would like to extend our deepest respect and condolences to Martin’s family, friends, and colleagues at this, a very sad time for all.”

Mayor of Tenby, Clr. Mrs. Sam Skyrme-Blackhall also paid tribute.

“Out of respect for my lovely friend Julie, today we are sending our love and condolences on the sudden passing of Martin,” she said.

“We are also sending our love to all the family and Martin’s extended family at Tenby Fire Station. Another Tenby character taken too soon.”

Martin who was aged 67, was the beloved husbandof Julie and dad to his three daughters Louise, Carly and Jody.

Funeral details will be published at a later date in the hope that there might be some easing of the current restrictions.

There will be family flowers only, with donations, if desired for The Firefighters Charity and Wales Air Ambulance which may be sent c/o E. C. Thomas and Son, Funeral Directors, Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg.