FRIENDS, family and colleagues all gathered in a special celebration to mark a dedicated firefighter’s illustrious service anniversary.

Firefighter Richard Bluett has been helping to put out fires and save lives in Delabole and the surrounding areas served by the fire station for 40 years, and such a momentous anniversary deserving of a celebration for all those who value the person and the firefighter.

Mr Bluett’s career with Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service’s Delabole community fire station began on November 1, 1986, a time where it was just a day before Berlin took the number one place in the UK charts with ‘Take My Breath Away’, a song made famous by the Tom Cruise film Top Gun.

It was also a time where Margaret Thatcher was in her second term as Prime Minister, and the average price of milk was 24p per pint.

Although much has changed since Mr Bluett first joined the fire service, one thing has remained constant – his unwavering dedication to the Delabole community and the people he serves.

To mark the occasion, Mr Bluett was given a surprise gathering of friends and family on Sunday, November 1, with a formal reception taking place at the drill night held a few days later.

A spokesperson for Delabole Community Fire Station said: “We are delighted to share that Firefighter Richard Bluett has reached a huge milestone of 40 years of service at Delabole Community Fire Station, serving our local communities. What a superb accomplishment.

“Richard’s anniversary was November 1, 2026, and to celebrate this we arranged for a surprise gathering of friends and family on Sunday afternoon, with a more formal reception at our drill night on November 4. Thank you to all that helped to make this a memorable celebration.”