Essex County Fire and Rescue Service has proudly welcomed 13 new firefighters into the Service.  

Thirteen new firefighters have finished their training course at ECFRS’ Service Training Centre in Witham and will be heading to fire stations in Basildon, Brentwood, Chelmsford, Clacton, Colchester, Grays, Harlow and Southend.

Firefighters performing a house fire drill

The new recruits were officially welcomed into the fire service during a passing out parade where they showcased their training by performing two drills in front of loved ones and colleagues. They demonstrated their skills and professionalism in tackling a house fire and responding to a road traffic collision.

The ceremony was attended by Chief Fire Officer/Chief Executive Rick Hylton and Joel Charles, Deputy Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex. Proud family, friends and colleagues looked on in the crowd.

Firefighter Sam Rose getting the top recruit award from CFO Rick Hylton

Rick Hylton, Chief Fire Officer/Chief Executive said: “It’s a real pleasure and privilege to be here today and a real privilege to be the Chief Fire Officer at Essex County Fire and Rescue Service. Today is an opportunity to formally welcome our new colleagues to the service, to each and every one of you congratulations.

“To be stood on that line today has taken a huge amount of self-sacrifice, determination and commitment. You were chosen because we believe you’ve got the personal qualities and attributes to carry this service forward and help make Essex County Fire and Rescue Service one of the best in the country.

“You’re joining a very strong team, a team of unique individuals all united by one common purpose and that common purpose is to make Essex safer. Each and every day, together we work to make sure the public of Essex are safe. Whether that be responding to people having their worst possible day or whether it be the work that firefighters do every day to keep communities safe. Essex County Fire and Rescue Service is part of those communities and we play an essential part, I very much welcome you to the service.”

Joel Charles Deputy Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner said: “I’m delighted to be here today to form part of this passing out parade and a big thank you.

“To you, our latest cohort of firefighters who have successfully navigated a demanding period of training and assessments to get to this point, this is your opportunity to celebrate.

“You are joining a high-performing work force with a positive culture to match its worth ethic. At every level of this service, what stands out to me is the clear determination to serve and add value. the passion and drive I have witnessed day after day is building a strong and resilient service that is fit for the future.

“Take enormous pride in what you have achieved so far. Take up the chance to learn and develop as you progress in your careers. Look forward to the future, it is your actions that will shape the future of firefighting for many years to come. I wish you the all the very best of luck as you embark on your careers working to maintain the safety of the many diverse communities that make up this great county.”

Firefighter Sam Rose was presented with the top recruit award, and was recognised for his determination and professionalism, and great teamwork during the course.

With permissions from Essex County Fire and Rescue Service