A Ledbury fire fighter has hung up his helmet for the last time after more than 25 years of fire fighting.

Sub-officer Terry Phillips celebrated a quarter of a century of service with a party at Ledbury's Royal British Legion Club.

Fifty-six-year-old Mr Phillips, a retained part-time officer, said he will miss fire fighting - but he won't miss the limitations on his social life.

"I don't drink - if I have a shandy that's enough for me," he said.

Mr Phillips and the Ledbury crew were first on the scene at the Seven Stars pub fire in July 2001. He also attended the Sun Valley blaze in Hereford 10 years ago in which two fire-fighters lost their lives.

Taking over at Ledbury will be leading fire fighter, Keith Wildig.