Worcester Park firefighter John Cliffe had to hold back the tears, when he retired after 27 years serving in Sutton.

The father-of-four, who lives in Balmoral Road, was given a chrome axe and plaque at a ceremony at Wallington fire station.

In keeping with tradition for retiring firefighters, Mr Cliffe’s fellow officers also chucked a bucket of water over him.

The 55-year-old, who has a two-year-old granddaughter, said: "It was about a month ago I handed in my notice. The last week or so I have been wondering if I made the right decision.

"I managed to keep the tears back."

Mr Cliffe said working during the London riots was one of the most challenging moments of his career, and continued: "It was surreal. It was like a war zone.

"We were called out to tackle the fire at the Reeves furniture store in Croydon."

He retired on Wednesday, February 18.

Surrey Comet:

The long-serving firefighter falls victim to tradition