Retiring firefighter Julian looks back on 44 years at East Midlands Airport
A firefighter who has clocked up 44 years at East Midlands Airport is swapping a 12-tonne fire truck for pushing toy prams with his granddaughters as he rolls up the hoses for the last time.
Julian Essex started working at the airport in 1984, initially in ground handling services, followed by a stint with the airport police – now known as security – before moving into his dream job of airport firefighter in 1991.
He has dealt with countless call-outs since then, from fires in cabins, galleys and the undercarriages of aircraft to medical emergencies. The fire crew also play a vital role in clearing snow when it hits the airfield.
In recent years, he’s been instrumental in forging a close relationship between the airport and Twycross Zoo, arranging delivery of old hoses and cargo netting to provide swings and hammocks for occupants of the ape house, as well as donating two pick-up trucks for zookeepers that were no longer needed by the airport.
Living close to the airport all his life meant he grew up with it and has seen it change dramatically over the years. He recalls a time when the area now occupied by DHL’s enormous cargo hub and apron was a farm, while the area at the other end of the runway “was all fields.”
As a large and growing employer, he has noticed how the airport has played a big role in the fortunes of neighbouring villages, where pubs, restaurants, hotels and bed and breakfasts have thrived.
“It’s great to see it expand and I know it will expand even more in the future which is nice – but I will be watching from the other side of the fence,” said Julian as he eyes retirement.
“The place has changed drastically over the years. The current fire station was being built when I arrived - it used to be under the old Air Traffic Control tower. You wouldn’t recognise the terminal building from that period – some people will remember being able to come in as a non-flying customer, have a drink and go out on a viewing platform which is now just a flat roof.
“There was only one apron, not three, and security was only in place for that – you could have driven out onto the runway if you’d wanted to back then.”
Julian is now looking forward to spending more time with his wife including touring Europe, as well as seeing their two daughters and three grandchildren – expecting to be roped into pushing dolls’ prams or playing football.
“I’m a big believer in one door closing and another opening, so I am really looking forward to what comes next,” he said. “The airport has done wonders for me and has provided some stability through hard times.
“The best thing about working at East Midlands Airport is the people, we have a good laugh and people love working here. It’s been fantastic really.”
Head of Airport Fire & Rescue Service Martin Lindsay said: “Julian has been a mainstay of the crew for many years, bringing lots of experience and dedication to the service. He’ll certainly be sadly missed and we all wish him well in his retirement.
“We have recently taken on some young recruits and you can’t help wondering what changes they will see at the airport if they stay here for the next 44 years!