Somerset school is recognised for its commitment to local community

Pictured are (left to right) Street Station Commander Chris Higgins, James Yeates (Glastonbury firefighter), Brendan Simpson, Mark Suddaby and Joe Finn (Street firefighter). James and Joe are employed at Millfield.

A Somerset school has been presented with a Special Recognition Award by Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service.

Millfield has employed one of the Service’s crew managers for more than 16 years plus several other firefighters in Street and Glastonbury. It also allows the Service to use its sites for exercises and training.

School Bursar Mark Suddaby was presented with the award by Brendan Simpson, of award sponsor Fireblitz Extinguisher Ltd, at the school.

Station Manager Ainsley Bird, of Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service, said: “To allow these firefighters to be on-call for us while working at the school for so many years is an impressive commitment from a single employer and shows real dedication towards the safety of the local community.”

The Special Recognition Award for Services to Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service is part of its annual Celebrating Our Success awards ceremony.

Mark Suddaby said: “We are proud to be part of our community and to help the local fire station by making staff available to provide fire cover. Millfield and Millfield Prep currently have three staff who work for two local stations. As a school, we value the role the fire brigade plays in our community and we look forward to continuing to work closely together.”

Brendan Simpson said: “Fireblitz is proud to sponsor this award and to help the Service recognise the support it receives from the community, in particular the primary employers of on-call firefighters.”