Edinburgh man succeeds in reuniting firefighter helmet he has had for almost 30 years with original officer

A man has been left feeling delighted after he managed to reunite a firefighter helmet that has been in his possession for almost three decades with its original owner.

Mark Martin, from Edinburgh, made a social media appeal earlier this week to return a Lothian and Borders Fire Brigade helmet to the officer who owned it about 30 years ago.

The 36-year-old presenter was bought the helmet from a car boot sale when he was an eight-year-old aspiring firefighter.

Within just 24 hours of posting his appeal, Mark was given an address and a telephone number from helpful members of the public.

It turns out the original owner was retired officer Arthur McAnna who used to be in charge at Sighthill fire station.

The two met this week, keeping at a social distance, and the pensioner was able to wear his hat for the first time since stepping away from service three decades ago.

Mark said: “I am just delighted I’ve managed to reunite it with him.

“My social media has gone crazy saying it’s such a nice lockdown story.

“It’s just a shame I couldn’t shake his hand.”

Mark said the timing could not have been more perfect as Mr McAnna will be celebrating his 80th birthday on Sunday and his wedding anniversary today.

He said: “It’s just great timing, I hope he enjoys his gift!”

Mr McAnna has been retired from the fire service since 1993 and lives in Barberton.