New control firefighters celebrate graduation

Joined by family and friends, the six new firefighters celebrated their achievements at a graduation ceremony on August 25, hosted at Fire Control at Lansdown.

There was a presentation of certificates and awards before guests were given a tour of the Control Room and enjoyed demonstrations in the yard.

Alfie Hill, Tina Thatcher, Michelle Roberts, Harriet Hillman, Marianne Harris and Billie Ayre have completed their intensive 12-week training course.

They will now join their new Watches and work towards completing their two-year probation period, due to finish in 2024.

Michelle Roberts was also presented the Top Recruit – Fire Control Award during the ceremony “for her effort, always demonstrating Service Values and supporting her colleagues”.

During training, the new Control Firefighters learnt a wide variety of skills and information relating to the Service and our communities, this includes operating the mobilisation system, fire service terminology, procedures and joint working with other Fire Controls and agencies.

CFO Simon Shilton said: "I’d like to extend my congratulations to our new Control Firefighters.

"You should all be incredibly proud of your efforts, and I’m pleased to welcome you all into Avon Fire & Rescue Service, for what I hope will be a long and successful career.

"Your journey with our Service is just beginning and the skills you’ve learnt will continue to develop as you begin to serve your communities.

"Thank you for all your work so far."

Kimberley Hughes, crew manager training, said: "These recruits experienced the busiest period whilst on Watch for several years with call volumes increasing daily due to the challenging weather conditions we’ve experienced this summer.

"Throughout their training, they’ve showed professionalism, determination and resilience whilst practicing their new skills under the watchful eye of their Watch. We wish them the best of luck in their two-year probation and look forward to seeing them grow."