Fire service staff and community members have been recognised for their exceptional work.

The Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service staff were honoured for their service and commitment at the annual Worcestershire Medals and Awards Ceremony, which was held at The Guildhall in Worcester.

The Lord Lieutenant of Worcestershire, Beatrice Grant DL, presented His Majesty The King’s awards in recognition of long service and good conduct for 20 and 30 years of uniformed service.

The chairman of the fire authority, Councillor Kit Taylor, also presented service awards for 20 and 30 years of service.

Chief Fire Officer Jonathon Pryce presented the Silver Axe award to Thea Millward, awarded each year to the top on-call trainee recruit.

The High Sheriff of Worcestershire, Charles Moyle JP, presented the High Sheriff’s Award to Evie Burton, awarded each year to the top fire cadet from the service.

Andy Meacham Car Repairs was recognised and presented with a Chief Fire Officer’s Employer Award for the exceptional contribution Andy Meacham has made to the safety and wellbeing of his communities in his on-call firefighter role over many years.

Mr Pryce said: "It was an honour to once again be able to formally recognise some of the fantastic achievements and commitment of our staff and members of the community."

He continued: "All of the accolades given were very well-deserved and many recipients have contributed towards keeping the people of Herefordshire and Worcestershire safe."

The Chief Fire Officer's Certificate of Commendation was presented to several individuals for their life-saving actions, including Will Daglish, Jake Richardson, and Anthony Wilson.

Ade (MBE) and Sue Taylor were also recognised for their ongoing support and commitment to the service’s fire cadets.

The Chief Fire Officer's Letter of Appreciation was awarded to several individuals, including Neil Box, Gary Butler, Andrew Faizey, and Wayne Grech of Malvern Green Watch, for their actions in July when they assisted the police in the rescue of a vulnerable person.

The Fire Fighters Charity awards were also presented, with Leigh Tasker-Devere receiving the HWFRS Supporter of the Year Award for 2023-24.