Thanks to West Sussex fire service helpers

West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service’s community volunteer scheme recruits people to support the service’s flagship home fire safety check campaign, as well as a range of other fire and road safety initiatives.

In the 12 months since the pilot was launched last November, the team of volunteers has grown to 24 and the service now has volunteers working in Bognor Regis, Chichester and Midhurst.

To celebrate the success of the scheme, a special ceremony was held at County Hall, in Chichester, where the volunteers were formally thanked and presented with fire service pin badges by chief fire officer Sean Ruth.

Robin Dobbs, one of the volunteers, said: “I really enjoy being part of the fire service team. I get involved in a wide range of activities and there is always an experienced colleague on hand to advise if I am not sure of something. In the six months I’ve been volunteering, my confidence has really grown.

“I would recommend anyone with a bit of spare time to become a fire service community volunteer. It’s satisfying, you can learn new skills and you might just save a life.”

Safer communities manager for the fire service Nicki Peddle, said: “The celebration event was a great way for us to thank our team of volunteers who come from all walks of life and give up their time freely to help keep people in their communities safe. We’re delighted with the positive impact that the scheme has made in its first year and are really excited about its potential to grow.”