Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service stations from across the county have paid tribute to their "much-loved" colleague, Mervyn Housden.

Mervyn, who served at St Neots Fire Station for more than 40 years, sadly passed away on Sunday, September 22.

The team at St Neots Community Fire Station paid tribute to him on September 25.

Mervyn's colleagues said: "Mervyn was the cornerstone and shining light of St Neots fire station.

"He dedicated over 40 years looking after the people of St Neots, the surrounding areas and Cambridgeshire.

"He has been a guide and inspiration to so many firefighters, old and new, over the years."

The team said: "(He) was usually a quiet and reserved man but with jokes and one liners that would have a room of firefighters crying with laughter for ages.

"He was one of the best friends, colleagues and firefighters any of us will ever have."

At 11am yesterday (September 26), colleagues from across the Service held a minute's silence in memory of the on-call firefighter.

A spokesperson for Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "Merv proudly served at St Neots Fire Station for more than 40 years and was a much loved and well respected colleague and friend to many during his time with the Service.

"Merv will always be remembered, and will be sorely missed by everyone."

Mervyn has been described as the cornerstone and shining light of St Neots Fire Station.Mervyn has been described as the cornerstone and shining light of St Neots Fire Station. (Image: Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service)

An online book of condolence has been set up for people to share their memories of Merv. You can visit the page here.