Posted: 16:20, July 22, 2022
Flags belonging to one of Norfolk’s emergency services have been lowered to half-mast as a mark of respect following the death of a “respected” firefighter.
David Pickwell, who worked at King’s Lynn North fire station, died in the early hours of Tuesday 19 July.
Hundreds of his family, friends and colleagues have taken to social media to pay their respects.
Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service said in a statement published online: “It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our colleague and friend firefighter David Pickwell at King’s Lynn North Fire Station.
“David joined us in April 2017 and became a respected member of King’s Lynn’s Blue Watch. He was a good friend to many, serving the communities of Norfolk with immense professionalism and pride.
“Our thoughts are with David’s wife and two children and with his wider family and friends. As a mark of respect, our flags have been lowered across Norfolk.”
The service’s interim fire chief, Tim Edwards, also paid tribute. In a post shared with his followers on Twitter, he said: “This morning we lowered our station flags to honor one of our amazing firefighters who passed away suddenly this week. Our thoughts are with his family, his friends and also with those who watched over him and those who helped him.”
Many colleagues joined him in changing his profile picture to a black background with a red line down the middle, a gesture that represents a loss within the firefighting community.
Mr Pickwell loved football and was a season ticket holder at Lincoln City Football Club and manager of Hykeham Tigers Junior Football Club where he trained.
The Tigers also released a statement to their fans online. It read: “Hykeham Tigers JFC is devastated by the death of our much loved friend and colleague, David Pickwell.
“Dave was an important part of our club and will be sadly missed by anyone who had the pleasure of knowing or working with him. Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.”