Flags flown at half-mast for 'inspirational' firefighter Michael

TRIBUTES have been paid and flags flown at half-mast following the death of a long-serving firefighter from Totton.

Michael Szymanski (46), who was known affectionately as Shrek, passed away last Tuesday surrounded by his family.

The father of two served at Winchester and Redbridge stations and was well known for his charity work, which included sitting in a bath of compost for Children In Need.

He was also a former volunteer and chairman of New Forest North Scouts.

As a mark of respect, Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service headquarters and stations across the county lowered their flags to half-mast.

His wife Lisa said in a statement: “My family are lost for words. Mike was the lynchpin to our family unit. Our children, Rose and Adam, are a credit to him, showing true strength of character at this difficult time.

“Mike inspired everyone around him. He continually challenged himself physically, whether it was completing the Marathon des Sables, cycling South Downs Way from Winchester to Brighton and back again or simply learning to stand on his head.

"Mike’s death has left family, friends and colleagues devastated.”

Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service’s chief fire officer Neil Odin added: “Mike’s death comes as a great shock to the service. I know he will be sorely missed by his colleagues, especially at Redbridge and Winchester fire stations.

"Our thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues at this sad time.”