THE FAMILY of a local fireman who has recently retired after serving for more than 40 years in the industry have spoken of their pride in him as an "unsung hero". 

Michael Butler, from Abergavenny, recently retired from his role as a firefighter after more than four decades in the position.

Michael first joined the Abergavenny fire station on August 1, 1980,  making him the longest serving fire fighter to date in South Wales history. 

Michael was a beloved member of the crew for four decadesMichael was a beloved member of the crew for four decades (Image: Lewis Butler) Now, with 44 years of firefighting complete, his proud son Lewis has spoken of his pride in his father's achievement.

Lewis said: "From my perspective, having my dad be a firefighter was like every kid's dream.

"My dad was basically my own personal Fireman Sam, and I remember spending hours playing in the station as a child, sitting in the engines and just generally annoying him! 

"I remember doing that when we used to live opposite the fire station, which we did for more than a decade, and it's always stuck with me.

"I'm so proud to call him my dad, especially as if you try to work out how many lives he's touched and saved over the past 44 years, I truly think it would easily be in the hundreds, if not thousands."

Michael joined the force in August 1980 (Image: Lewis Butler)

Lewis says his father had become known in the community as a bit of an "unsung hero" because he "never did it to be anybody special". 

He added: "To put into words what he thinks, I know he didn't do it to be a hero, he did it because he knew he could make a real difference in that role.

"It’s a bit morbid, but he’s always said “you can always help the living, but you can’t help the dead”.

Lewis has said he is so proud of his father for his commitment to the serviceLewis has said he is so proud of his father for his commitment to the service (Image: Lewis Butler)

Lewis continued: "He might not have done it to be a hero, but I'll always be proud of what he's achieved, and he's certainly a hero of mine.

"I'm just so proud of him for this fantastic achievement."

Following the official announcement of his retirement on Facebook on September 22, many locals paid tribute to Michael and his commitment to the local community over the past 40 years. 

Michael has received many well wishes on his retirementMichael has received many well wishes on his retirement (Image: Lewis Butler) One person said: "Showing that level of dedication to his home town and the community he served all those years is something to be amazed at! Well done, and enjoy retirement!"

It is clear from the comments that many feel Michael's retirement is "well deserved", while others praised his "awesome dedication" to the role. 

In one comment, Michael was described as a "true legend" while it was also noted that the service wouldn't be the "same without a Butler on the force". 

Health and Care Awards

Stories like Michael's are invaluable, and highlight the amazing work that emergency services workers do in the community.

Members of the community will be celebrated and recognised at this year's South and West Wales Health and Care Awards 2024, taking place in December.

There's still time to apply for sponsorship of the awards, however spaces are limited. To find out more information, contact lynsey.hughes@localiq.co.uk

The Health and Care Awards ceremony will be held at Rodney Parade in Newport in December 2024.The Health and Care Awards ceremony will be held at Rodney Parade in Newport in December 2024. (Image: Newsquest)