FLAGS outside fire stations across Dorset and Wiltshire were flown at half mast as tributes have been made following the sudden passing of firefighter Simon Kaye.

Simon Kaye, a crew member for Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, was taken ill during a shift at Christchurch Fire Station on Monday morning.

He was given treatment by colleagues and medics and taken to Royal Bournemouth Hospital but sadly died.

After the news broke of Simon’s unexpected death, tributes have been pouring in on social media from fire stations, former colleagues and members of the public expressing condolences.

Westbourne Fire Station uploaded a picture of their flag being flown at half mast, a hanger with FF Kaye beside it and a headshot of Simon to their Facebook page.

Their tribute read: “From all at Westbourne Fire Station we are truly devastated at the loss of our Brother Simon Kaye, who served a large majority of his career here on Red Watch.

“Simon had a positive impact on everyone he worked with, especially those on Red Watch.

“Our thoughts are with his family, his friends and colleagues in this really difficult time. RIP Brother.”

Former colleague Rich Crowley also said: “I worked with Simon at Ferndown. One of the most decent, caring, funny and helpful people you would ever wish to meet. He loved his family and will be missed by all.”

Chief Fire Officer Ben Ansell said: “Since announcing the sudden death of Firefighter Simon Kaye on Monday, as a Service we have been overwhelmed by the messages of sympathy and support we have received, from our local communities, members of the public from far afield, fellow fire and rescue services, and other emergency responders.

“Many of the comments received have been tributes from people fortunate enough to have known Simon; most have been heartfelt condolences from people who never got to meet him but share our pain in his loss.

“My heartfelt thanks go to everyone who has been in touch, whether on social media or in other ways. We hope to collate all of the comments in due course and pass them to his family as a lasting tribute.”

Simon's death is not believed to be related to the coronavirus outbreak.