Former Otley firefighter receives surprise visit
A former Otley firefighter, who turns 100 later this year, was given a memorable surprise when a fire engine arrived outside Anchor’s Wharfeside care home, where he has lived for almost three years.
Edwin Webster, who served nearly 27 years as a retained firefighter, had no idea the visit was planned and was surprised when the engine from Otley Fire Station arrived outside the home.
Firefighters Warren Utley, Leo Johnson and Harry Grimes welcomed Edwin aboard, showing him the current firefighting equipment and inviting him to try on their modern kit. Edwin was especially pleased to discover the engine even had an in‑built kettle, prompting him to say: “I wish I could turn back the clock!”
Edwin was a firefighter during the construction of Otley Fire Station in 1958 and shared memories of a time when the station had 19 firefighters and two engines. The visit was especially meaningful because Edwin had worked with Warren Utley’s father, Ken, a former sub‑officer at the station.
Louise Bulcock, Manager at Anchor’s Wharfeside care home, said: “Edwin has always spoken so proudly about his time in the fire service, so being able to surprise him in this way as he approaches his 100th birthday was incredibly special. It was wonderful to see the amazement on his face when he realised the engine was there to visit him!”
As the crew departed, with lights flashing, Edwin summed up the day perfectly: “I would consider this a success!”