A CLEANER who has worked at Darlington Fire Station since it opened went home in style on her final day.

Pam MacDonald decided to call it a day after working at the station for 27 years. And firefighters, who say she has become part of the furniture, were determined to give her a fine send off.

Deputy Chief Officer Paul Henderson presented Pam with a certificate to mark her years of service. She was also given a bouquet and a photograph of her with her cleaning colleagues.

But the highlight of the day was a trip home to Darlington in one of the station's fire engines.

Assistant Divisional Officer Alan Wray said they don't usually make a fuss when someone leaves, but said Pam is special.

He added: "I think if I served in a fire station for 27 years cleaning up after the lads here, she deserves to retire in style.

"Pam's been with us for such a long time and she's a very quiet person, but it'll be strange coming in and not having her around.