Last night (Monday 14th October) Theatre Severn in Shrewsbury hosted an evening of awards and celebration for the latest batch of on-call firefighter recruits to join Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service.
Friends and family were invited along to see the 25 firefighters receive their certificates, with a select few being awarded the silver axe for top student on their course.
Chief Fire Officer Simon Hardiman with Firefighter Patrick Fuller who has joined Church Stretton Fire Station
Firefighter Tyler Wilson-Taylor of Ludlow Fire Station receiving the Silver Axe from Watch Manager Dave Joyner
Before presenting certificates, Deputy Chief Fire Officer Sam Burton said:
“Tonight is a celebration of the start of your journey as on-call firefighters, you are the future of the Fire Service and are exceptional people.
I am amazed by the variety of skills and experiences you all bring from your day jobs which will ultimately help us keep the people of Shropshire safer.”
DCFO Sam Burton speaking before presenting certificates to the new recruits
The evening was also an opportunity to celebrate firefighters who have completed their development programme and the employers who allow their staff to undertake on-call firefighter duties.
ACFO Jason Kirby with Firefighter Emily Jane Harding
Following the presentations, awards for special categories including charitable work and outstanding contributions were given by the High Sheriff of Shropshire, Vice Chair of the Fire Authority Richard Overton and ACFO Karen Gowreesunker.
Brian Welti JP High Sheriff of Shropshire with Station Manager Ross Donnelly who accepted the High Sheriff's Good Citizen Award on behalf of Andrew Davies of Red Watch Shrewsbury following his charity fundraising
ACFO Karen Gowreesunker presenting the Service's Admin Support Team with a Chief Fire Officer's Special Recognition Award for their charity fundraising
If you are interested in learning more about the role of an on-call firefighter, visit: shropshirefire.gov.uk/on-call
