Name: Sally Evans

Station: Thornbury

Age: 42

Height: 5ft 8’’

Year joined AF&RS: 2006

Previous job: I also work as a barmaid and receptionist.

Position at AF&RS: Retained firefighter.

Hobbies: Keeping fit, socialising and horse riding.

Favourite food: A good steak  

Favourite drink: Cider

Favourite place: Wherever home is.

Claim to fame: First female firefighter in Thornbury

Why did you want to become a firefighter? I needed a challenge. I enjoy helping in the community and I love the spontaneity of working retained and of course the adrenalin rush.

Did you have any fears about becoming a firefighter? Only the normal fears of starting anything new and unknown.

Did you do much physical training before joining AF&RS? I spent a year training and I took on a personal trainer which was fantastic.

How hard did you find training school? I enjoyed it, but it was challenging. It was difficult to take in so much information.

How was your first day on shift? My first day on call was exciting and nerve-racking, a mixture of all emotions.

How do you find working in a mainly male dominated workforce? I love it most of the time. When I am struggling with something I can feel quite lonely but they do all try to help.

Is there any support in place for female firefighters? There is a support group called Women’s Action Group, which is there to be used if you need it.

If a female said to you they wanted to join AF&RS what would your response be?