Scarbrough Court World War Two veteran celebrates 108th birthday

A resident at Scarbrough Court, in Cramlington has celebrated his 108th birthday.

Joe Dixon enjoyed a celebration with fellow residents and staff at the Home, along with gifts, a birthday cake, and a personal card from the Queen. In the afternoon, Joe received a special visit from Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, where he has served for over 50 years.

Joe was born in October 1913 in Walker, Newcastle and worked in a butcher’s shop before becoming a firefighter in 1937. He worked his way up to become a sub-officer before volunteering alongside three of his firefighter colleagues in 1943 to assist with the war effort.

He began working in the Newcastle City Police, Fire and Rescue Service in 1937, and lived in one of the 27 flats in the married quarters with his wife Lydia for 27 where they raised two children.

Joe served in RAF Bomber Command during the Second World War, and returned to work as a firefighter when it ended.

He served on the front line for 27 years in what was formerly the Newcastle and Gateshead Fire Service before retiring in 1964.

Joe Dixon with his Newcastle and Gateshead Fire Service crew

Joe said:

I have always felt very important in my job. The Fire and Rescue Service has always made me feel very important to them. One fond memory I have is on my 100th birthday, I had a visit from the chief fire officer and his crew to mark the celebration and they have visited me wherever I have lived on every birthday since.

Being at Scarbrough Court care home for my 108th birthday, the day could not have gone any better. I am always treated very well and I am so grateful for all the support I received, I was surrounded by lots of family and friends.

He continues to be a regular visitor at Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue headquarters in Washington where a special ceremony was held in his honour to mark his 100th birthday in 2013.