Tributes pour in for popular firefighter

Malcolm Bean (57), who set-up Malcolm James Independent Estate Agents in High Causeway, Whittlesey with sister Lorraine Bingley 20 years ago, died at his home in Owens Gardens last Thursday.

Malcolm was born in Taunton, Somerset but raised in Gunthorpe where he attended the local primary school before going to Deacons School.

A keen local footballer, the Leeds fan was an apprentice at Baker Perkins and worked in the Starlite Suite at Peterborough United before going into real estate with the now liquidated firm Cornerstone.

Malcolm also joined Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service in June 1985 as an on-call firefighter.

Watch Commander Mark Brown said Malcolm was well-liked and his passing will leave a massive void. He added: “With over 30 years of dedicated service Malc was part of the fabric of Whittlesey Fire Station. Malc had a great sense of humour, jovial character and an easy going manner, so his sudden death has been devastating to us all.”

Flowers have been placed outside the fire station in Cemetery Road.

Malcolm leaves behind partner Jane, son Jordan, mum Pat, dad Brian, sisters Lorraine and Denyse, a niece, nephews, Jane’s daughter Michelle and grandchildren.

Lorraine (55) is very thankful to the local community for its support, adding: “We are all overwhelmed at the outpouring of feelings and kind words offered whilst we keep the business running in Malcolm’s honour, and we look forward to seeing you all in the future.”

Malcolm’s funeral is at 2pm on February 8 at St Mary’s Church, Station Road, Whittlesey. A procession is leaving the fire station at 1.30pm. Malcolm is being cremated at Peterborough Crematorium, at Marholm at 3.30pm.