TRIBUTES have been paid to a much-loved former fireman, who has died aged 85.

Mike Ginger, who served the area as a firefighter for 30 years, died on December 11 after a short illness.

Originally from Nottingham, Mr Ginger worked out of Worcester, Malvern, Upton and Ledbury fire stations until his retirement in 1989.

While serving in Worcester, he and his family lived above the fire station.

He regularly featured in editions of the Malvern Gazette and Worcester News, including saving a cat from a well and saving a horse from a ditch. He leaves behind his wife and their three children Brian, Carolyn and Melanie, and grandchildren Rob, Emily and Eloise.

Deputy chief fire officer John Hodges from Herefordshire and Worcestershire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “As a station officer at Malvern and Worcester fire stations and a fire prevention officer, Michael Ginger was a valued member of Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service staff for many years and is still fondly remembered by those who served with him.

"We offer our sincere condolences to his family and friends.”

A fire engine and a guard of honour with a standard flag bearer will accompany his coffin at the funeral, which will take place at Worcester crematorium on Monday, January 6 at 2:30 p.m.

There will be no flowers, but there will be donations to The Firefighters’ Charity.