Firefighters win awards
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AFIREFIGHTER who works in Runcorn has been presented with a medal for 20 years exemplary service during a ceremony at Eaton Estate in Chester.
Craig McIntyre, based at Runcorn Fire Station on Heath Road, was presented with The Long Service Good Conduct Medal by Cheshire’s Lord Lieutenant David Briggs.
He was one of just four firefighters to receive the award this year.
Craig began his career at Ellesmere Port Fire Station before moving to Runcorn in 2001 where his is remains to this day.
His wife Karen was there to watch his proud moment, along with dignitaries, principal officers and Cheshire Fire Authority members.
Support staff member Ursula Jones, who works in the fire brigade’s human resources department, received a 40-year service award.
The medal was instigated by Winston Churchill more than 60 years ago.
A Royal Warrant was approved by the Queen and an announcement was made in the House Of Commons by Winston Churchill on June 1, 1954, accompanied by a White Paper giving the terms.
The medal is hand-stamped with the recipient’s name.
Chief Fire Officer Paul Hancock said: “The special awards were presented to individuals who have served for 20 years and who have, in that time, shown exemplary behaviour.
“I would like to congratulate everyone who received a medal and an award which is a great honour, and thank them for their dedication to the service, especially one individual who have worked tirelessly for the organisation for 40.”
The Lord Lieutenant said: “The Fire Service Long Service and Good Conduct Medal is issued by Royal Warrant, and I was therefore honoured to make the award on behalf of Her Majesty.
“I extend my sincere congratulations to all medal and award recipients on their long and exemplary service.
“The job they do requires humility and respect often delivered under arduous conditions.
“Theirs is a special job, a vocation for which they have been deservedly honoured.”