Leigh Sterry began his service in 1995 as a retained firefighter at Prudhoe Fire Station before becoming a whole-time firefighter in 2000. He went on to serve at stations across Northumberland, including Cramlington, West Hartford, Hexham, Morpeth, Pegswood, and Berwick, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues wherever he worked. The Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service said in a statement: "Leigh was a highly valued member of our fire service family whose dedication, commitment and contribution to protecting the people of Northumberland left a lasting impact. "He was held in great regard by colleagues across the organisation, and his loss will be felt deeply throughout the Service. "Leigh's service, friendship, and commitment to supporting both his colleagues and the communities of Northumberland will be remembered with gratitude and respect.