Preheat the oven to 175°C.

Grease and flour two 20cm cake pans.

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

Add the softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla extract, and milk.

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

For the buttercream, beat the softened butter until creamy.

Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, beating until smooth.

Once the cakes are cool, level them with a serrated knife.

Spread a layer of buttercream on the first layer of cake, then place the second layer on top.

Cover the entire cake with a thin layer of buttercream to crumb coat it. Chill for 30 minutes.

Apply a final thick layer of buttercream, smoothing it with a spatula.

Color the fondant as needed and roll it out to cover the cake. Smooth the surface and trim the edges.

Decorate the cake with fondant to resemble Fireman Sam, including his uniform and facial features.

Use the remaining fondant to add details like the belt, badge, and any additional decorations.

Chill the cake until ready to serve.