HERO: Ray Bailey with wife Angela, left, and daughter Victoria with her partner David TRIBUTES have been paid to a heroic firefighter who has died aged 68 after catching Covid-19. Ray Bailey spent most of his career helping to save lives and property in Ramsbottom, becoming a respected and popular figure among his colleagues and local residents. During 25 years’ service with Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, Ray was stationed at Rochdale and then Bury fire stations for short spells, before moving to Ramsbottom Fire Station. “Dad was the most warm, generous and funny man,” said Ray’s daughter Victoria, who thanked Fairfield Hospital and Salford Royal ICU. “He always had a joke or a story to tell and his generosity with his time has helped many a person.