Fire crews to line streets for funeral of Doncaster firefighter and music star

Calvin Dodd, who was based at Doncaster Fire Station, died last month from a heart attack.

He was also the lead singer of The Jam tribute band Setting Sons and his funeral is due to take place this Friday with a call for firefighters to line the streets to pay tribute to Mr Dodd, a dad of two.

The Fire Brigades Union has called on its members to line the route of Mr Dodd’s funeral at Rose Hill Crematorium to pay their respects.

A spokesman said: “There will be a service at Rose Hill before burial in the grounds.

“Fire personnel are invited to show their respect to Calvin outside the fire station for 11.40, when the hearse passes.

“The on duty watch will parade. The hearse will pause outside the station before continuing to Rose Hill for the funeral at noon.”

A statement added: “After consulting his partner Rachel and immediate family and taking into account Calvin’s views, we invite members of the Fire Brigades Union to Rose Hill.

“We hope as many FBU members will show support to Calvin and his family, and everyone respects his wishes at this tragic time.

It added: “Due to government coronavirus guidelines, it is illegal for more than six people to congregate from different households. This should be borne in mind for anyone who isattending. Social distancing must be strictly adhered to for all personnel.”

FBU mourners are asked to park on Cantley Lane car park and using social distancing, to line the street at 2m intervals on both sides towards Ascot Avenue and Everingham Road for 11.50 at the latest in blue uniform.

Mr Dodd, a dad of two, died on May 16 and an appeal in his memory has already raised more than £8,000.

A post on the Setting Sons Facebook page said: “It is with much sadness, shock and disbelief, that we mourn the loss of our great friend and leader of the band Calvin Dodd, who was suddenly taken from us.

“Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones, especially partner Rachel and children Courtney and Freddie as well as John, Karen, Simon, his niece, nephews and cousins, all of whom he loved very much.

“The world is already an emptier place without him and we will all miss his smile, energy and unquestionable willingness to help others.

“He was the ultimate showman, who loved entertaining people both on and off stage but selflessly shared the limelight with the rest of the band.

“On behalf of Calvin, we would like to thank everyone who has supported us over the last 20 years. You were one in a million buddy!”

Mr Dodd was also described as a ‘fantastic firefighter and family man.’

A report on Emergency Services News said Mr Dodd, who had been with South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue for several years, had just completed two day shifts.

Martin Reading, a friend of Calvin, said: “He was a fantastic firefighter and family man.

“Leaving us all far too soon but with many great memories as the popular man, we will all remember him for.

“We will all miss you forever, Cal”.

The band, who performed all over Yorkshire and across England, are named after The Jam’s fourth album Setting Sons.