Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service gathered on Monday 21st June at St. George’s Church, Pontesbury to mourn the death and celebrate the life of Mat Evans. The funeral service was led by Reverend Silvia Turner and Brigade Chaplain Reverend Peter Barnes.
Officers, Fire-fighters and staff joined with Mat’s family in paying tribute to a professional firefighter, loving father to Mollie, son, brother, and steadfast friend.
Mat was born on the 9th July 1980 and grew up in the shadow of Pontesford Hill. Following attendance at Mary Webb School and Shrewsbury College he studied for a BA in Outdoor Education at Trinity University College, Pembrokeshire.
After time spent leading groups in outdoor adventures for the Preseli Venture organisation and a period of working and living in countries across the World he became a proficient mechanic and joined his father, Derek, at the family business in Pontesbury.
In January 2007 he fulfilled his life’s ambition by joining Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service.
A proud member of the Service, Mat joined his mother Su in Shrewsbury, who is the Brigade’s Water Officer.
Serving our community with Green Watch Shrewsbury Mat quickly became a valued member of the team and, always keen to learn, developed to become a fully qualified firefighter in November 2009.
Mat will be sadly missed by all who knew him and will be remembered as a much loved and respected colleague and friend.
