On Thursday 14th October 2021, Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service held its annual awards ceremony at Pride Park, Derby, honouring 77 individuals who have completed 20, 30 and 40 years’ good conduct and long service achieved in 2020 and 2021
The event was hosted by Derbyshire’s Chief Fire Officer/Chief Executive, Gavin Tomlinson.
This year, 27 operational employees were awarded the 20 Year Queen’s Fire & Rescue Service Long Service and Good Conduct Medal, presented by her Majesty the Queen’s representative in Derbyshire, The Lord-Lieutenant, Mrs Elizabeth Fothergill CBE. This medal is presented to those who have provided long and meritorious service to the UK Fire & Rescue Service.
In addition, Councillor Trevor Ainsworth, Chair of the Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Authority, presented 24 operational and support employees with lead crystal vases and pens to honour 20, 30 and 40 Years’ Long Service in the Fire and Rescue Service and Local Government.
Speaking at the ceremony, Chief Fire Officer/Chief Executive Gavin Tomlinson said: “It is an honour to be here this evening, celebrating and recognising the long service and good conduct of individuals from across the Service; individuals who have dedicated many years to Making Derbyshire Safer Together.
“In recognising the long service of our employees, it is equally an honour to welcome their families here this evening too. Family and friends are the hidden support network for all our employees, the ones who listen, the ones who are in the background quietly providing the support necessary to allow them to do the jobs they do – for this I am thankful.
“This evening has been a proud occasion for all, and I hope everyone attending can reflect on the achievement of those receiving a medal, or an award, knowing that without such a dedicated workforce, the Service would simply be unable to continue delivering such an effective service to the communities of Derbyshire.”
Reflecting on the awards, Councillor Ainsworth said: “Tonight we have celebrated the long service and good conduct of many of the Service’s past and present employees and it is an honour to be part of that celebration. Everyone here this evening should feel justly proud of the contribution they make to the safety of our Derbyshire communities.”