THE Blaenavon firefighter seriously injured when a fire engine crashed last week is recovering in hospital following an operation, his son said yesterday.
Five firefighters were injured after the fire engine they were travelling in overturned on Blaenavon Road, between Blaenavon and Govilon, on Thursday morning.
The crew, retained firefighters from Blaenavon, were responding to an emergency call in Torfaen when the accident happened.
Watchman, Paul Roberts, 51, was airlifted by Wales Air Ambulance to the University of Wales Hospital, Cardiff. On Friday, Mr Roberts underwent treatment for a broken femur and broken ribs.
Mr Roberts' son, Dean, who is also a firefighter in Blaenavon, said the operation to place a pin in his father's femur, which had a clean break, went well.
He said: "My dad is pleased with how the operation went and he is now sat up and talking to us when we visit, so he is recovering well."
However, Mr Roberts will be kept in hospital for observation for between two and three weeks.
Mr Roberts thanked South Wales Fire Service and the public for both their help at the crash and for their continued support after. Four of the crew suffered minor injuries during the incident.
Mr Roberts said his father, who is approaching 30 years as a firefighter, inspired him to go into the service.
He added: "It won't put him off going back into duty but it will be a while as he will need a lot of physio."
In 2008, Mr Roberts received a medal for serving more than 20 years service, and for maintaining high standards in character and conduct throughout.
Police are probing the cause of the crash.
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