This in from the council, in their own words. Ed
Firefighters from across the Island will gather at Haseley Manor on Tuesday 25 September for a ceremony to mark 20 years of exemplary service.
The Lord-Lieutenant of the Isle of Wight will present the firefighters with medals for ‘Long Service and Good Conduct’ on behalf of Her Majesty The Queen.
Senior Fire Officers will be in attendance along with the chairman of the council, Councillor Susan Scoccia and cabinet member responsible for the fire service, Councillor Edward Giles.
Seven firefighters to be awarded
A total of seven firefighters and their families will be present at the ceremony; another four will receive the medal but are unfortunately unable to attend due to prior commitments.
The firefighters receiving awards serve their communities in, East Cowes, Bembridge, Shanklin, and Newport fire stations.
At the ceremony, which takes place on the Island every two years, the Lord-Lieutenant of the Isle of Wight Major General Martin White will be greeted by the Chief Fire Officer Steve Apter, before entering Haseley Manor followed by the colour party, three fire officers wearing ceremonial uniform carrying the fire brigade standard.
The Royal Warrant will be read by the Warrant Reader before the firefighters are called up individually to receive their medals.
Important to recognise the dedication
Councillor Edward Giles, cabinet member responsible for the fire service, said: “It is very important to recognise the dedication and good conduct of these fire fighters who have completed 20 years of continuous service.
“I am sure residents will join me in thanking them for the vital work they have carried out in our communities over the years.”
The firefighters
The following seven firefighters will receive their awards tomorrow evening.
Watch Manager Melvyn Richards, East Cowes
Firefighter David Bolmeer, Retained Duty System, Newport
Firefighter Ryan Copeland, Wholetime, Newport
Firefighter James Mackett, Wholetime, Newport
Station Manager Leighton Bryant, Wholetime, Newport
Firefighter Andrew Jones, Retained Duty System, Bembridge
Watch Manager David Broome, Retained Duty System, Shanklin
Also receiving awards for Long Service and Good Conduct are:
Firefighter Andrew Dyer, Sandown
Firefighter Raymond Garrett, Newport
Firefighter Ross Singleton, Ryde
Mr Simon Thomas, Ex Firefighter, Shanklin
