A Larbert fire chief is hanging up his helmet for the last time after spending over 30 years serving Forth Valley.
Ian Aitken, retained Watch Commander at Larbert Community Fire Station, joined the then-Central Scotland Fire Service in 1988 as an on-call firefighter.
He rose through the ranks to become top dog at the local fire station, while also working for the NHS.
His colleagues at Larbert have paid tribute to his long spell of public service on social media.
Posting from the Larbert Community Fire Station Facebook page, Ian's fellow firefighters said: "Ian was always willing put other peoples safety before his own, every day for his entire working life.
"It is a testament to the sort of person Ian is. As you retire we pay tribute to the amazing job you did and how much we all owe you.
"You never gave anything less than 100% for those who needed you."
They added: "It has been an absolute pleasure and privilege to have worked with you.
"You have been one of the best firefighters [and] Watch Commanders and will be sorely missed.
"As you leave remember just how much we and the community are grateful for all you’ve done.
"You can retire in the knowledge that you really made a difference. the lives saved and the family’s kept together will be forever grateful to you."
Over 20 comments of thanks were left on the fire station's Facebook post praising Ian's commitment to others.
Fellow firefighter Tom Penman said: "Congratulations Ian on a fantastic achievement.
"It was a pleasure working with you, your professionalism and dedication is something to reflect back on with pride.
"Enjoy your retirement, mate."
The staff at Denny Community Fire Station added: "Happy retirement Ian. What a fantastic amount of time to give to the fire service and your local community.
"You will be missed by all...it was a pleasure working with you."
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