From an ex stunt man to people looking to start a new chapter in their lives, the latest on-call recruits are about to start at various stations across the county this week.
Chief Fire Officer Rod Hammerton said: “It's a privilege for me to welcome our latest on-call firefighters - it's a real credit to them all that they've successfully completed what are challenging job-related tests (JRTs).
“We're looking forward to them becoming part of their local station establishments to continue their professional development and work with their colleagues to protect their communities.”
First up is ex-Police officer Jo Alcock (52) will be joining Prees station. With a background in conflict resolution with West Midlands Ambulance, Jo is well placed for working with the public and after her husband passed away, she has taken on the challenge to make a fresh start.
Her fitness journey began with a couch to five Kilometre run (C25K) and with the help of a personal fitness instructor, passed the fitness test with flying colours.
Next, with a background in front line services with West Midlands Ambulance, Scott Hebson (44) is looking forward to being part of the team at Oswestry station.
As a trainer in domiciliary care, he’s missed the camaraderie of working with teams, structure of the service and is looking forward to working at the heart of his community again.
Originally from Birmingham, Jack Wall (22) has recently moved to Cleobury Mortimer and working as a maintenance engineer.
Following in his uncle’s footsteps – a retired firefighter of 40 years – Jack is looking forward to his new life in the countryside with his girlfriend from the area.
Bishop’s Castle will be welcoming two new recruits. Turkish-born, Omer Bozdag (23) has been dedicated to supporting his family’s business in Bishop’s Castle, working seven days a week.
His family runs the fish and chip shop making Omer a well-known figure in his community. He’s excited for the change and the opportunity to support his community in a new way.
Joining Omer is Craig Harris (23) and with an uncle and father already in service Firefighting runs in the family.
Craig was a keen footballer and reached the Europa League qualifying rounds for Newtown but now hopes to progress to full time service eventually and is testing the water with on-call training.
You may have seen Alex Temmink (40) in blockbuster hits such as Pirates of the Caribbean, Assasain’s Creed or War Horse as a former stunt man.
He has also recently qualified as a paramedic with West Midlands Ambulance and is looking forward to learning something new and supporting his community in Albrighton.
While self-confessed petrol head Sam Gillard (40) is looking forward to being part of a uniformed service again after serving with the RNLI in Norfolk.
He works as a park keeper in Church Stretton and is a huge fan of the outdoors and his Land Rover show truck.
Adrian Jones (47) decided to join the service after being introduced by a friend in the gym. Having worked in front line services as a probation officer in the Prison Service, he’s looking forward to the camaraderie that comes from working in the service and to giving something back to the community of Bridgnorth.
Also joining the Bridgnorth crew is director, ex Merchant Navy man of 16 years and keen cyclist Chris Poole-Gleed (58). He’s looking forward to a new chapter in his life and with his fighting fitness levels, showing how age shouldn’t be a barrier to being a firefighter.
Finally, the course’s youngest recruit at 19 is Daniel Thomas. A keen runner and footballer, Daniel currently works with young adults with challenging behaviour and learning difficulties and will be joining the Ludlow station.
Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service is always looking for retained on-call firefighters. They are a crucial part of the Fire Service as come from all walks of life and all ages. If you, or someone you know are up for a new challenge then visit https://oncallfire.uk/ for more details and start your journey today.
Pictured Left to right: Chris Poole-Gleed, Scott Hebson, Craig HArris, Alex Temmink, Jack Wall, Omer Bozdag, Sam Gillard, Daniel Thomas, Adrian Jones and Jo Alcock.
