A CARE home worker has become the third member of his family to join Dorset Fire and Rescue Service.

Richard Upshall, 22, follows in the footsteps of his father Carl, who became a retained firefighter in 1986, and his 29-year-old brother Simon, a full-time firefighter based at Christchurch.

An employee at Colten Care's Newstone House in Sturminster Newton, Mr Upshall said his training was “hard work and intense at times”.

“The fire service has been always been a part of my life, thanks to dad's involvement,” he said.

“It's something I've always wanted to do and I'm really pleased my application was successful.

“My mum, Theresa, is very proud as is my dad. I've already been on 11 jobs including fires and road accidents so it's been fairly busy.”

Mr Upshall arranged for a fire engine to visit the care home to give residents a behind-the-scenes look.