FIREFIGHTERS from Haslemere have been singled out for their “outstanding dedication” at an annual awards ceremony. Held at the service’s Reigate headquarters, the event also recognised long-serving staff and new graduates for their commitment.

They were presented by the High Sheriff of Surrey, Elizabeth Kennedy.

Chief Fire officer Russell Pearson told the audience: “These awards give us the opportunity to recognise the hard work and outstanding dedication of our staff.

“The vital role played by the service continues, with firefighters involved not only in attending fire incidents, but also increasingly at road traffic collisions and special rescue incidents.”

Jeff Villis, a former Halsemere firefighter received his long award for 30 years of dedicated service.

Mr Villis joined Surrey Fire and Rescue Service in 1985 being the third generation of firefighter in his family.

After serving first on Walton and Epsom in several roles he was promoted to flexi station officer, serving at Haslemere and Mole Valley as borough commander, before returning to fire safety as an assistant divisional officer for the east area. Jeff was then promoted to group manager, working in policy and emergency planning.

He was instrumental in the work carried out by the Collaborative Partnership representing SFRS. Jeff retired as group commander east area community risk, after 30 years, in April.

Long service and good conduct medals were awarded to two more fire and rescue officers from South West Surrey.

Andrew Hart joined the service as a retained firefighter, in July 1995, before becoming full-time and moving to Haslemere, where he was organiser of the “Ride it Right” project. After working in fire prevention, he is now assistant manager of the force’s volunteers.

He is also the co-ordinator for the firefighters’ charity locally and has tried to increase fundraising as much as possible.

Christopher May also received a long service and good conduct medal.

Enrolled as a firefighter in 1995. his initial posting after his training, was at Haslemere. He now is crew commander at Guildford and represented the British Fire Service at football as well as being a keen cricketer playing for the MCC and coaching for Sussex.