THE funeral of a North-East firefighter who died suddenly has been held today. (Wednesday, February 25)

A vintage fire engine formed part of the cortege as family, friends and colleagues said a final farewell to Consett Watch Manager Ian Bell.

The 42-year-old, from Consett, died in the early hours of Sunday February 8.

He was married with one daughter.

The service was held at Christ Church in Consett before cremation at Mountsetts Crematorium and mourners were asked to wear red, or red and white.

Staff from the fire service dressed in uniform formed a guard of honour to send off their friend and colleague.

Stuart Errington, deputy chief fire officer at County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service, said: “He was an outstanding member of staff and it has been a huge loss to the service. He was a first class fireman and ran a really good watch.

“Consett is very good station, very much community orientated and Ian was at the heart of that.

“There has been a real sense of mourning across the service since Ian passed away. It is really tragic.

“Our thoughts are with family, friends and colleagues.”