Firefighters and staff from across West Norfolk have been recognised for decades of service, while a King’s Lynn colleague who created a garden to support the wellbeing of her team and a young Hunstanton fire cadet were among those receiving special honours.
The awards brought together firefighters, professional services staff, volunteers and guests at the Assembly House in Norwich to recognise some of the people who help keep Norfolk’s communities safe.
And there was plenty of West Norfolk representation on the night.
King’s Lynn firefighters Shaun Futter, David Copeland and Matthew Curtis, together with William Guy from Heacham, each received a Long Service and Good Conduct Medal marking 20 years.
Twenty years in the fire service means two decades of turning out when most of us would rather be heading in the opposite direction, and their awards recognised both their commitment and conduct during those years.
A garden that offers somewhere to breathe
There was a particularly thoughtful award for Joanne Sinclair from King’s Lynn, who was named a Wellbeing Star.
Joanne created a wellbeing garden with support from her watch at King’s Lynn fire station, providing colleagues with somewhere quiet to relax, reflect and find support following difficult experiences.
For firefighters regularly dealing with incidents which most of us would hope never to encounter, having somewhere to decompress and talk can make an important difference.
Her efforts were recognised by colleagues at the ceremony on October 2.
Fire Cadet of the Year for Joshua
There was also a big moment for Joshua Moore from Hunstanton, who was named Fire Cadet of the Year.
Norfolk Fire & Rescue Service’s cadet programme gives young people an opportunity to learn about the work of the fire service while developing practical skills, confidence and teamwork.
And being singled out from among them for the county-wide award makes Joshua’s achievement one Hunstanton can be particularly proud of.
Decades of dedication
Across Norfolk, 38 people received Long Service awards and certificates recognising 20, 30, 35, 40 and even 50 years with Norfolk Fire & Rescue Service.
Other awards, voted for by colleagues, recognised staff and supporters who had made an exceptional contribution to the service.
Chief Fire Officer Ceri Sumner said: “These awards celebrate the people whose skill, courage and commitment make our service what it is.
“I am immensely proud of our firefighters, professional services staff and volunteers, as well as the partners who work alongside us.
“Their dedication, often shown in the most demanding circumstances, helps keep Norfolk’s communities safe every day.”
The recognition comes after an exceptionally demanding period for Norfolk’s crews, with August recorded as the busiest month in the history of Norfolk Fire & Rescue Service.
Councillor Pat Gould, Norfolk County Council’s cabinet member with responsibility for the service, said the awards were an opportunity to recognise those working both on the frontline and behind the scenes.
“The people recognised at these awards represent the very best of public service,” she said.
“Whether responding on the frontline, supporting colleagues behind the scenes or working in partnership with the fire service, they make an invaluable contribution to Norfolk.”
After such a busy summer, an evening away from the sirens, hoses and emergency calls offered a welcome opportunity to recognise the people behind the uniforms.
And with awards coming home to King’s Lynn, Heacham and Hunstanton, West Norfolk certainly had plenty to celebrate.
