'Fascinating, moving' Richard Herring

The hilarious, moving and utterly compelling memoir from a third generation firefighter.

'Highly inspiring and impossible to put down' Nazir Afzal OBE

'Firefighters are a unique breed. It takes a certain kind of individual to enter a burning building to rescue someone they have never met before.'

A third-generation firefighter, Leigh Hosy-Pickett has seen it all in his twenty-five years in the job. He's battled infernos and pulled people from the wreckage of twisted metal. He's experienced pain and trauma in the discharge of his duty, and been supported by the laughter and strength of character you find within every fire station. A family away from home, firefighters share intimate trust and healthy mutual banter - a spark of light often desperately needed amongst the darkness.

Leigh shares his deeply personal story and the funniest, most eye-opening and moving experiences from a life lived amongst the smoke. A celebration of the everyday heroism of our Fire Service, Up In Smoke is a clear-eyed and honest record of the many sacrifices made for us all in the line of duty.

'A real insight into the commitment of our firefighters' Nick Knowles
'Highly inspiring and impossible to put down' Nazir Afzal OBE