Newton Aycliffe Firefighter Vince Crane.
Vince Crane was so determined to become a firefighter that he quit his job and moved more than 200 miles away.
The devoted Newcastle United fan left his Callerton home to join Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service in 2018 and follow his dream.
“My ambition was always to become a firefighter,” Vince said.
“One of my family friends was a firefighter for Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service and I remember visiting the station and listening to the crew talk about the job.
“Seeing their enthusiasm for the role and then watching them turn out to incidents fuelled my ambition.”
It was quite the career change for Vince, who had worked at the former Northern Rock bank and Northumbrian Water after university.
But the 40-year-old thrives under pressure and said he loves knowing he is making a real difference to people’s lives.
“My role as a firefighter is to protect and serve and our community,” Vince said.
“We train regularly to ensure there is no skill fade.
“As well as attending incidents, we visit local premises to carry out fire safety audits and offer advice and guidance for any risks we discover.
“We also engage with the community on a regular basis, fitting smoke alarms and giving fire safety advice.
“Visiting schools to give talks on topics such as water safety, arson reduction and Bonfire Night is also part of our role.
“There’s a strong sense of purpose and pride in knowing that what we do genuinely matters.”
After five years in Hereford and Worcester, Vince transferred to our Service and returned home to his beloved North East.
Vince is now a firefighter based in Newton Aycliffe and said the best part of his job is how hands-on it is.
“I love the operational side of the role, getting my hands dirty and putting my skills and knowledge to the test - whether that be wearing breathing apparatus or attending a road traffic collision,” Vince said.
“I enjoy working under pressure and seeing first-hand the positive impact we have within our communities.”
Outside of work, Vince enjoys playing football and golf, watching Newcastle United, and spending time with his fiancée Claire.
