NEWLY recruited Bromsgrove firefighters were among 15 who received their pass-out certificates at a delayed but still very special celebration last week, following a tough training course.
The wholetime firefighter recruits, accompanied by friends and family, were officially welcomed to Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service by Chief Fire Officer Jon Pryce at the formal ceremony at Wyre Forest station.
It follows an arduous eight-week training course which took place last year during full lockdown and included time spent at the Service’s Droitwich Training Centre.
Singled out was firefighter Lisa Campbell, from Bromsgrove station, who won the Silver Axe trophy as Top Wholetime Recruit.
Training comprised a wide range of skills and expertise needed for fire and rescue work in the 21st century, including fitness, technical knowledge and the ability to handle a variety of situations and equipment.
Others from Bromsgrove included Harry Leake and Matthew Round.
Although already in post after enrolling earlier this year, their formal welcome had to be delayed due to the pandemic.
The service’s latest wholetime recruits are all at least 18, coming from a range of backgrounds across the service area, and already providing a high-quality service both day and night and at weekends, on shift patterns.
Welcoming them to the service, Mr Pryce congratulated them on their achievements after months of dedication, hard work, training and study.
He added they reflected their commitment to society and their determination to support the community in challenging and often life-saving emergency situations.
After the formal ceremony, the visitors were treated to a buffet and watched a firefighting display, giving family and friends an insight of what the new recruits now contend with.
Visit www.hwfire.org.uk/join-us for more information on careers with Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service.
