A former machine tool engineer who switched to a career in the fire service 30 years ago retires today.

Mark Sayle, of Tetley Drive, Birkenshaw, began as a firefighter at Halifax station in 1972 and progressed through the ranks to become a Divisional Officer in 1997.

Mr Sayle, 53, served as Assistant Divisional Officer at Odsal station in Bradford from 1989 to 1992 and is a graduate of the Institute of Fire Engineers.

A keep-fit enthusiast, he has raised £16,000 for local charities over the past four years as well as completing four consecutive London marathons.

Mr Sayle is married to Jean and has two grown-up children, Alan and Pam, and a granddaughter, Sequoia. He likes gardening.