Leighton Buzzard fire crew surprise Frank, 5, with ‘best birthday ever’

On March 3, Frank Grover, five, was greeted by Fire Chief Richard Burton and his staff when they drove their engine to his house to make a heartfelt delivery.

Mr Burton first met Frank in January when the curious young lad - who is mad about the fire service - visited the station for a treat, and Mr Burton was so impressed by his knowledge and passion that he wanted to say thank you.

Frank’s mum, Letty Grover, said: “Frank couldn’t believe it when they came round the corner!

“The whole crew and Richard - who he is starting to idolise - drove up and gave Frank a certificate of commendation, Top Trumps, a pencil case and a birthday card - they had printed out one of the photos from the visit in January.

“They had gone the extra mile for that personal touch. We are so grateful to Fire Chief Richard and the crew, and Frank keeps saying it was the ‘best birthday ever’!”

During Frank’s family visit to the station in January, he was able to view the different size ladders, the drying room and the changing room, seeing the helmets, boots and trousers.

Letty added: “Richard gave up his Sunday morning and was so kind and accommodating. We were supposed to be there for ten to 15 minutes but we ended up being there for two-and-a-half hours. Frank asked lots of questions such as: ‘Where do you get water from?’

“Then an actual call came in and Frank saw the crew arrive in a flash, get their gear on and get out! He was in shock for about 20 minutes.”

Frank said: “I thought ‘wow’. They are heroes because they put out fires and help people. I want to be a fireman and a policeman. I like Fire Chief Richard because he drives the truck.”

>Letty would like to thank Nina Carpenter and Richard’s wife Jules who helped to arrange things.