Dedicated fire staff recognised for long service

Firefighters and support staff presented with their 20 Years Long Service Award Medal

Thirty nine people, including both firefighters and support staff, were each presented with their 20 Years Long Service Award Medal.

Lord Lieutenant Mr Smith JP presented each of the operational recipients with medals at the event in the Imperial War Museum North, Salford, on Wednesday (March 1, 2017) evening. He said: “It is an exceptional privilege to be invited here to do this presentation.

“I do not need to tell you that the Service provides a high degree of risk not only for yourselves but for your colleagues. I want you to know that the majority of people I speak to do respect this and the work you do.

“May I, as Her Majesty’s representative here in Greater Manchester, on her behalf, congratulate and thank each and every one of you for the great service you do for the British public.”

The recipients of the long service awards range from firefighters and officers to ladder technicians and cleaners.

Chris Hanson, Watch Manager, said: “There isn’t a day that goes by where I haven’t laughed at, laughed with or been laughed at by friends, the enjoyment of working people is a great part of the job.”

John Houghton, Firefighter, said: “I like knowing that whatever situation we find ourselves in on the fire-ground, each watch member can be fully trusted and relied upon.”

Richard Rigby, Firefighter, said: “I still love coming into work not knowing what is going to happen on any given shift and then having to deal with whatever comes along with a great set of professionals.”

GMFRS County Fire Officer and Chief Executive, Peter O’Reilly, added: “Every member of staff receiving an award has dedicated their working life to keeping the people of Greater Manchester safe.

“All of them share the values of selflessness and courage, which make firefighting such a noble profession. On behalf of the community I would like to thank all of tonight’s recipients for their distinguished service.”