Leigh Robson

Heartfelt tributes have been paid to a popular firefighter who was killed in a car crash.

Leigh Robson, 27, from St Leonards, was travelling home from Dartford Fire Station when the five-car smash occurred on the A21 at Robertsbridge.

As a mark of respect, Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) establishments flew the Union Flag at half mast upon hearing of the tragedy on March 4.

Leigh served as a firefighter at Dartford for two years and was previously at Ashford for three years.

Affectionately known as Robbo by his colleagues, shocked fire service staff have spoken of his friendly and kind nature which made him popular with both the public and fellow workers.

Dartford's Red Watch manager Vince Lewis said on behalf of his colleagues: "Robbo always had a smile on his face and a very infectious laugh. He clearly relished the role of firefighter and his technical knowledge and practical ability was of huge benefit to both our watch and to the people served by KFRS.

"He was always willing to help others with all sorts of issues and never complained about work.

"We all feel privileged to have served with Robbo – he was much more than just a colleague. His arrival at the station followed a significant period of change for the watch and Robbo helped with creating a stronger team.

"The station has suffered a huge loss with his passing, one that I doubt we (the watch) will ever be fully able to come to terms with. We will miss his friendship, good humour, enthusiasm and dedication to the job."

Away from work, Leigh enjoyed a busy social life with his watch, taking part in a variety of activities including golf, go-karting, paintballing and mountain biking.

Often instigating such activities, his colleagues said this helped the watch develop a closer working relationship.

Dartford Station manager Steve Appleton said: "Leigh was an integral part of both the watch and station. He ensured that his working competencies were maintained to the highest abilities by completing and updating several training courses. His contribution to the fire service and local community has been outstanding and his professionalism at incidents and public events was always of the highest standard. Leigh will be very deeply missed – our thoughts are with his family, girlfriend and friends."

Chief fire officer Charlie Hendry said: "Leigh was a highly regarded firefighter with such a promising career ahead of him. His colleagues at Dartford have lost a friend and the whole service shares a sense of sadness at the loss of a fine young man. We will continue to do whatever we can to support Leigh's family through this difficult time and to honour his memory."

A close friend and colleague said: "He was a very kind bloke and as far as I know never upset anyone in the 10 years I knew him.
"He worked hard and loved his family very much."
His funeral will be held at the Holy Redeemer Church, Upper Church Road, St Leonards on Wednesday (March 19) at 2.15pm. 

Well wishers are asked not to send the family flowers, but are urged to make a donation to either the Fire Service National Benevolent Fund (FSNBF) or to Dartford Fire Station who will select a local charity in Leigh’s memory.

Donations to the FSNBF can be made via funeral directors Hinckley Funeral Services on 01424 722461 and Dartford Fire Station can be contacted on 01322 284355.
Sussex Police are investigating the cause of the car crash.