An awards presentation evening took place at the Wesleyan Chapel on Tuesday 7 May 2024 in order to formally recognise the contributions of several members of the Isles of Scilly Fire and Rescue service and His Majesty's Coastguard.
Retirement certificates were presented to 3 firefighters who have each served for over 30 years: Watch Manager, Tony Goddard and firefighter, Will Hensleigh from St Martin's; and Crew Manager, Mark Sedgman from St Agnes.
Councillor Fran Grottick, Vice Chairman of the Council of the Isles of Scilly, presented a 30-year clasp to St Martin's Watch Manager Ben Gillett.
Councillor Avril Mumford, Lead Member for Adults and Public Health, presented Long Service Good Conduct medals to a further 3 crew members for their 20 years of service: firefighters Jof Hicks (St Agnes), James Morton (St Martin's) and Dave Mumford (St Mary's).
Commander Jon Oliver from His Majesty’s Coastguard also recognised the years of dedicated service from members of his staff. Mandy Williams (St Martin's) received a 30-year clasp and leaver/validation certificate and Carl Bray (St Martin's) received a 40-year clasp and leaver/validation certificate. A 23-year leaver/validation certificate was also presented to Jof Hicks (St Agnes).
Royal Humane Society awards were also presented to Tony Goddard, James Morton and Paul Boxall from St Martin's for their involvement in the rescue and successful resuscitation of a casualty.
Mark Hewitt, Chief Fire Officer of the Isles of Scilly Fire and Rescue Service said: "This event was a wonderful opportunity to formally recognise the commendable service of our firefighters and to show our gratitude to our firefighters’ families for the support they also offer to our fire and rescue service. Thank you to everyone who attended the awards ceremony and helped to make it a fun and successful evening."