A WOMAN has fulfilled her lifelong dream of becoming a firefighter – on her 80th birthday.

Doreen Thompson, of Willett Road, Colchester, had always been interested in fire engines, but had never been to a fire station.

Daughter Janette Caiger, 55, took her mum’s 80th birthday weekend as the perfect opportunity to ensure she lived out her firefighting fantasy.

Mrs Thompson was blindfolded on the way to Colchester Fire Station, where fire crews laid on an open day.

She was shown around the facilities, along with family and friends, given a demonstration of the hoses and posed in a fireman’s helmet.

The white watch team, led by station officer Peter Donovan, presented her with a bouquet of roses.

Mrs Caiger said: “She was thrilled and has fulfilled a lifelong dream.

“The firemen were absolutely fantastic.

“We didn’t have a clue about half the things they do to keep us safe.”