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The families of the two firefighters who died tackling a blaze in Southampton on Tuesday night, have paid tribute to their loved ones.

Alan Bannon from Southampton, and James Shears from Poole, were killed as they dealt with the fire at Shirley Towers in Church Road.

Both men were part of Redwatch at St Mary's Fire Station.

Alan Bannon was 38 years old, married to Charlotte and father to five-year-old Abigail.

He lived in the Bitterne area, near his parents, Margaret and Patrick and sister, Lin.
 
He joined Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service in 2001.

His mother Margaret said:

"Alan was an incredible person and managed to cram a massive amount into short a life.  We have lost a caring father, a loving son and a dear friend. 

"Alan had always wanted to be a firefighter and when he joined the fire service he began living his life long ambition, he never thought of himself as being a hero, he was just doing the job he loved.

"Abi was the apple of Alan’s eye and they absolutely adored one another. He had just spent some quality time with her on Tuesday before going on duty. We are fortunate in that Alan spent his last day with his beloved daughter and friends in the fire service.

"We would like to thank everyone who was at the scene for all their efforts and everything that they did."
 
Jim Shears was 35 years old, was married to Carla and father to two sons aged four and five.

He lived in Poole near his parents, Marilyn and Ed and brothers, Gary, Steven and Chas.

He joined Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service in 2003.

Carla Shears said:

"Jim was the most wonderful dad and husband. He had always wanted to be a firefighter and was truly our hero."

Jim's dad Ed Shears said:

"Jim had represented Great Britain in Judo and had been a World Firefighter Games champion on two separate occasions. He shared his skills training both youngsters and adults in this martial art. He also encouraged his brother Gary to become a Judo coach and will be a tough act to follow.

"He was the perfect son and son-in-law and we are all going to miss him terribly." 

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