Murders, riots and rescues are only part of the unique memoirs shared by retired Station Officer Colin Kirkham. Destined to be an arsonist or firefighter he took the legal route to fulfil his passion to 'Dance with the Angels', collecting a lifetime of memories along the way. For the Love of Fire follows his journey from probation to retirement, where he 'battles the beast' in two entirely different fire services, whilst attending some exceptional incidents not normally encountered by firefighters. Adding an extra dimension to his career, he also spent time as a Police Constable on the idyllic Isle of Man, where his physical size came in handy in the fight to maintain law and order. Recollecting notable fire and police incidents, including a serial killer loose in the community and a devastating motorcycle crash during the world-famous Isle of Man TT races, the stories are told with honesty, emotion and a good dose of humour, giving the reader a true reflection of what life is like serving in both the Police and Fire Services.

On Friday 13th September 2019 I embarked on an Elementary Pilot Training Course. 4 days later I would awake to be told most of the left hand side of my body & back were broken along with other serious injuries. I was told I'd sustained life changing injuries. Determined that I was not going to give my life up. I focused solely on what needed to be done to get me through. What had happened to me? 6 months into rehabilitation the COVID lockdown hit, physiotherapy, complimentary therapies & all types of training stopped. Completely isolated the only thing I could do now was to keep working on my walking until it became better & I grew stronger. With a body full of metalwork & the NHS completely at a standstill due to the pandemic would I be able to get the operations I need to release myself from the metal prison that is holding me captive? Would I be able to get myself out of the biggest challenge I was yet to face? Would I ever be able to get myself back to some semblance of a life I recognise?