A "dedicated" firefighter with more than three decades of service died at a fire station on Boxing Day.

Carl Mills, 58, who was found at Wroxham Fire Station on the morning of Monday, December 26, had served at the station as an on-call firefighter since joining the service in April 1984 and had been watch manager there for many years. 

Alongside his on-call role, he served as a firefighter for the fire service at RAF Mildenhall. 

Eastern Daily Press: The Norfolk Fire and Rescue flag flying at half mast at the Carrow Station in memory of Wroxham firefighter, Carl MillsThe Norfolk Fire and Rescue flag flying at half mast at the Carrow Station in memory of Wroxham firefighter, Carl Mills (Image: Denise Bradley/Newsquest)

Following his death, his colleagues from the Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service have paid tribute to Carl who was "loved by all who knew him".

Ceri Sumner, director of Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service, said: "The thoughts of everyone in the fire service are with Carl's family, friends and colleagues at this incredibly sad time. 

"Carl was a dedicated firefighter, with more than three decades of service to the county, and he will be remembered fondly for his commitment and professionalism, particularly in his role as watch manager at Wroxham."

He had received his 35-year service award

As a mark of respect, flags at fire stations have been lowered across Norfolk. 

Eastern Daily Press: The Norfolk Fire and Rescue flag flying at half mast at the Carrow Station in memory of Wroxham firefighter, Carl MillsThe Norfolk Fire and Rescue flag flying at half mast at the Carrow Station in memory of Wroxham firefighter, Carl Mills (Image: Denise Bradley/Newsquest)

Alongside Carl’s family, Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service thanked all of those who tried to help Carl on Boxing Day morning, including passers-by and members of the emergency services. 

Carl leaves a wife, daughter, son, his parents and elder brother.

His family has asked for privacy at this very difficult time. 

Norfolk Police have confirmed that there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding Carl's death and a file will be prepared for the coroner in due course.