Eight new on-call firefighters have joined West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service after completing their initial two-week training course.
On-call firefighters usually have full-time jobs elsewhere but respond to emergency incidents in their local communities.
The recruits live or work near local fire stations and will respond to call-outs from home or their workplace.
Speaking after the event, he said: “It was a pleasure to attend the pass out parade and welcome our new on‑call firefighters into the service.
“Their training has been demanding and fast‑paced, but every recruit has shown exceptional determination and commitment to the course.
“They are now well‑prepared to join their stations and respond to emergencies with professionalism and confidence, and I look forward to seeing them progress throughout their careers.”
Councillor Duncan Crow, Cabinet Member for Community Support, Fire and Rescue, said: “I would like to congratulate our new on-call firefighters. Our on‑call crews play an essential role in keeping communities safe, and I have no doubt that these new recruits will be a fantastic addition to their stations. I wish them every success as they begin their careers with West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service.”
The new firefighters, and where they will be based, are:
- Luke Day, East Preston
- Harvie Walton, Turners Hill
- Kraig Melville-Bellwood, Midhurst
- James Ayling, Arundel
- Louie Willmett, Midhurst
- Lucy Cooper, Haywards Heath
- Vincent Rowe, Selsey
- Sebastian Wattam, East Preston
People can find out more about becoming a retained firefighter at: https://www.westsussex.gov.uk/fire-emergencies-and-crime/west-sussex-fire-and-rescue-service/fire-rescue-recruitment/become-an-on-call-firefighter/
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