You 'Mey' now kiss the bride: Highland Watch Commanders get hitched
Two Watch Commanders within the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service have tied the knot surrounded by their family, colleagues, and the community.
Andrew Mackay and Kara Simpson were married on Saturday, 2 August, at Mey Hall in Mey, Caithness, with the fire and rescue service playing a special part in their big day.
The couple first met while working as Community Safety Advocates in the Highlands. With Andrew based in Sutherland and Kara in Caithness, their relationship flourished during the Covid pandemic in 2020.
With more than 34 years of combined service, they say their shared understanding of the demands of the job has only strengthened their bond.
“When one of us are late home through being committed at an incident or carrying out station engagements, or if the pager goes off during dinner and one of us is away for hours, we both understand the commitment,” Andrew said. “It fosters a unique respect for each other.”
Their wedding day reflected that passion and pride. A heritage fire appliance transported the couple from the venue, while ten members of staff from Thurso Community Fire Station, many of whom Andrew and Kara helped recruit and mentor, formed a guard of honour in ceremonial uniform.
“Meeting Andrew at the aisle, with the crew we’ve supported and worked alongside forming the guard of honour, filled me with pride and emotion”, said Kara.
“The easiest choice I’ve ever made was saying yes to Andrew. With our family, friends and fire service family around us, the day was simply unforgettable. He really is my soulmate and best friend.”
“We’re both so passionate about the service, and because we’re on the same page, everything feels natural and easy.”
Family was also central to the day. Andrew’s son Stuart, a wholetime firefighter at Bellshill Community Fire Station, proudly stood beside his father as best man.
“Stuart is my son and my best friend. To have him follow me into the service, and then be there on my wedding day, meant the world,” said Andrew.
Looking to the future, Andrew and Kara remain dedicated to their roles as Watch Commanders and to mentoring the next generation of firefighters. They also hope to travel and enjoy more quality time together now their children are older.
Local Senior Officer for Highland, and Area Commander, Lynne Gow, said:
“It’s not every day two of our Watch Commanders tie the knot - we are absolutely thrilled for Andrew and Kara. They are a fantastic example of the passion, commitment and sense of community that makes the fire service so special. We wish them all the best for the future and hope they have a long and happy life together.”