A TILLICOULTRY firefighter has last week retired from the service after 22 years.

Rab McAinsh, 58, spent just over two decades in the fire brigade before taking his leave on Friday, November 25.

Working his way up to a crew commander, he started in Bo’ness before taking charge of the team at Tillicoultry Fire Station.

Speaking to the Advertiser, Rab reflected on an incredible career.

He said: “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time on the fire service.

“It’s something different, definitely a change from my primary job which was in the prison service.

“I worked at the Tillicoultry station for 17 years and it was quite a busy station.

“We had some big jobs during my time – the glass works, the Leisure Bowl, a lot of big places that we’d get called out to quite frequently.

“I’ve learned a lot of new skills on the fire team – working at height, water rescue, promoting home fire safety.

“It’s been different, but I’ve loved it.”

Working at the Tillicoultry Fire Station, he worked alongside crew commander Colin Dobson who explained how Rab will be deeply missed by everyone at the station.

He said: “Rab had a distinguished career in the fire service, he worked his way up from a firefighter to a crew commander at Tillicoultry.

“He was a very well-respected member of the crew down at Tillicoultry but also in the local area and throughout the fire service.

“Everyone at Tilly is sad to see him go and we all wish him very well in his retirement.”