by Nathan Rao

A rugby-playing firefighter has been given the opportunity to pass on his expertise after being chosen to coach the Great Britain Fire Service team.

Peter King, firefighter at Sheppey Fire Station, has played for the Kent Fire Service Rugby Team and for the England Fire Service Team since 2000, and will coach the side’s back division.

The 38-year-old was approached by the Great Britain Fire Service Committee which was aware of his experience as a player and coach and offered him the position to coach the team made up of firefighters from around the country.

He accepted and is looking forward to the challenge which will mean him coaching the team for four days a month before a match.

The father-of-four, who plays fullback and fly-half, said: “I have been playing for England for around eight years, but this means I will be coaching the team which will represent Great Britain; I am over the moon.”