Ealing Firecrew Track Relative For Honorary Plaque Ceremony

Grandson of firefighter who died on last day of duty found after appeal

(Mark Lanaway, grandson David Clayton and LFB retired members association standard bearer David Bradbury Copyright London Fire Brigade )

An Ealing fire crew have successfully tracked down the grandson of a firefighter who died on his last day of duty and invited him to unveil a plaque in his grandfather’s honour.

The social media appeal reached as far as Australia and prompted a distant relative to get in touch with grandson Paul Clayton, who lives in Bedfordshire.

On 4 December 1966, while responding to a late night shout, Sub Officer Arthur accidently opened the door to the pole house and fell the 16 feet to the ground. He died from his injuries eight days later in hospital. He had completed 37 years of service and the accident happened on his last ever shift before retirement.

As a mark of respect, the Brigade has now erected a plaque at Ealing Fire Station to honour Sub Officer Tucker. 

Grandson Paul Clayton talks to firefighters at event Copyright London Fire Brigade

Mr Clayton went to the service held last Friday (19 May) to honour of his grandfather, he said: “I am touched, honoured and incredibly proud. My grandfather is someone I have heard stories about, but he died before I was born so I didn’t know much about him. To hear stories of what he has done, his achievements and the commitment he had to the fire service, makes me really touched and full of pride. He was well respected and helped the community. He was much loved by his family and friends and dearly missed.”

Red Watch Manager at Ealing Fire Station, Mark Lanaway, co-ordinated the special event and was retiring on the day of the service after 30 years with the Brigade.  He said: "It was a sad and tragic story but we hope this plaque will be a fitting way to remember him but also celebrate his 37 years of service."

The plaque is now displayed on the wall near the fire pole on the ground floor of Ealing Fire Station.

23rd May 2017