Firefighters join funeral procession for colleague who died of cancer

A fire engine led a procession of emergency service vehicles at the funeral of a firefighter who died just two days before Christmas.

Hilmi Say, 40, died after being diagnosed with cancer in January 2022.

His coffin was transported by a turntable ladder, and flanked by two fire engines, on a procession route lined with hundreds of well-wishers through Corby.

Mr Say joined Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service in 2010 and was described as a "much-loved" member of the team, based at Corby Fire Station.

He left behind his wife, Victoria, and two children, Brooke, 14, and Sophia, 11.

Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service’s Acting Chief Fire Officer, Simon Tuhill, said: said: "Hilmi was an incredibly popular person across the Fire Service, so it was no surprise to see that so many people wanted to come along and pay their respects.

"I know how proud Hilmi was to be a firefighter, and I’m glad that the fire service could grant his final wishes by playing such a key role in his funeral.

"Although this was an opportunity to lay him to rest, we know that Hilmi’s death continues to have an impact on everyone who knew him.

"We will continue to support Victoria and their children, as well as our firefighters and fire staff."

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