A firefighter has made history after becoming the first woman in Sidmouth to reach the rank of crew manager.
Sally Neal may be more familiar to many in her Royal Mail uniform delivering post around the town, but she has also been a member of the retained fire crew for the last 14 years.
Sally is keen to encourage other women to join the fire service, as they make up just four per cent of the nation’s life-saving crews.
“It is important to acknowledge women in a very male-dominated career,” said Sally.
“I am not treated any different being female and I would not want to be – a firefighter is a firefighter.
“Women are capable to achieve, meet high standards and be successful in a physical and demanding role.
“I joined the fire service because I am the type who is driven, enjoys challenging environments and has a hunger to continuously learn.
“I am extremely pleased – it is an exciting and very rewarding career.”