Sam grew up in Pontypandy. When he was young he wished to be a fireman at the old wishing well, which would eventually come true.

Sam lives in his house next to Trevor Evans, the bus driver. He is a member of the Pontypandy Fire Service, commanded by Station Officer Basil Steele. He works primarily alongside fellow firefighter Elvis Cridlington, sometimes with bus driver Trevor Evans, who works as an auxiliary firefighter, and Newtown firefighter Penny Morris.