Happy New Year everyone!  I hope you’re all well rested and have enjoyed a much-needed summer break.  I’m not sure summer has officially arrived just yet, but it must come at some stage…surely!

A quick article this month as we start the year on a very sad note for the Greenhithe Volunteer Fire Brigade, for the Greenhithe community as a whole, and of course, for the extended Martin family.

Grant Martin was tragically killed as a result of an accident in Otorohanga on Thursday 5th January.  Grant was just shy of 50 and died well before his time.  Grant was bought up in Greenhithe and spent a large part of his life here.  The Martin family were synonymous with our community and Rex, Grant’s father was well known as the Greenhithe ‘Sherriff’.  

Rex, his brother Trevor, Grant and his brother Tony all joined the Greenhithe Volunteer Fire Brigade at various stages.  Grant served 15 years and is a life-honourary member of the Brigade.  Rex served an amazing 33 years, many as Chief, and is still the second longest serving member in the Brigade’s history.  Between the four Martin family members who joined the Brigade, they served a total of 67 years, which is an outstanding commitment to community service and to the Greenhithe community.

On behalf of the past and present members of the Greenhithe Volunteer Fire Brigade, I’d like to extend our sincere condolences to the Martin family.  We are truly sorry for your loss but are immensely proud to have served with Grant...he will be remembered.

Regular communications resume next month…all the best for a great 2012…stay fire safe!

DCFO Gareth Wallis