Tributes paid to selfless Manningtree firefighter after death

Dudley Bones, who served at Manningtree’s fire station for more than 30 years, was born and raised in Mistley.

He joined the fire service in the 1960s and his bravery earned him a number of accolades, medals and certificates.

His son, Colin, 46, said he remembered his father saying his love was always to help and save other people.

“He always said his dream was of Mistley Maltings catching fire because it is massive”, Colin said. “And it did.”

He added:”There was a huge fire and the fire chief had to come down and I remember him saying to my dad ‘I am pretty sure you started this’.

“There were two children caught in mud who were starting to drown in Flatford Mill and instead of waiting he laid a ladder across the water.

“He saved them and got a medal for it.”

Service - Dudley Bones, of Mistley, had spent more than 30 years at Manningtree's fire station

Colin said part of his father died in the 1990s when he had to retire from the fire service but he used the time to focus on his other calling - mechanical engineering.

Mr Bones also worked part-time making blinds.

Colin added: “He was also an avid photographer. He has done portraits and quite few weddings.

“He never really did it for the money, he did it for the love of it.

Together - Dudley Bones' favourite hobby was spending time with his family

“He just spent ages taking pictures of his grandchildren and playing around with Photoshop and creating albums.”

Mr Bones, who leaves behind seven children, ten grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren, will also be remembered by his family for his loving and selfless nature.

Colin added: “He taught me all about respect and hard work and that if you want something you have to earn it.

“He had very old school values but it was the fire brigade I will remember him for the most

“His love was always to help and save other people.”

The funeral will take place at 10.15am on January 27 at Lawford Church.