THIS was the touching scene yesterday as hundreds of firemen bade an emotional farewell to a courageous colleague.

As reported in last night's BEN, Bury town centre came to a virtual standstill as massed ranks of firefighters paid tribute to Paul Metcalf.

Bachelor Paul, 40, drowned a week last Sunday as he tried to pull teenager Reyaz Ali to safety from Simons Lodge, Holcombe Brook, Bury. Reyaz also tragically died.

Despite a safety rope being tied round his waist, Paul slipped beneath the surface of the water during the rescue and later died in Salford's Hope Hospital.

Paul, who was a part-time sub-officer based at Ramsbottom Fire Station, was the first Greater Manchester County Fire Service officer to die at the scene of a rescue.

And yesterday his bravery was marked by both his workmates and townsfolk.

There was standing room only in Bury Parish Church as more than 1,000 mourners packed into the building.

And scores of shoppers braved chilly weather to stand outside the church as the funeral service was broadcast outside.

Jane and Alan Cash were among the crowd which gathered at The Rock to watch the funeral cortege arrive and listen to the service.

Mrs Cash said: "We just had to come to pay our respects, although we didn't know him at all.

"We know someone who was carrying his coffin. I thought it was a very nice service. It was very moving and it struck everyone."

A turntable ladder fire engine brought Paul's coffin to the church as firefighters lined the route, standing to attention in honour of their fallen colleague.

During the service County Fire Officer George Almond paid a moving tribute to Paul.

He said: "I know the whole Brigade and firefighters nationally are deeply saddened by the loss of such a valued and dedicated colleague. He will be a great loss to the community he served."

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