Avon Fire & Rescue Service has welcomed five new firefighters to the station in Bath, following the graduation of recruits on Friday 29th July following an intensive 14-week course.
Chief Fire Officer Simon Shilton, FF Chapman and Chair of Avon Fire Authority Cllr Brenda Massey | Photo © AFRS
To mark the occasion, an official ceremony was held at the fire service’s training centre at Severn Park in Avonmouth.
The cohort of 23 trainee firefighters showcased their newly learnt skills during the event, demonstrating the training they have acquired throughout their rigorous firefighting course.
Having successfully completed their intensive training, the recruits will put their new skills into practice as they join Bath Fire Station across its four watches and kick-start their firefighting careers at Avon Fire & Rescue Service.
AF&RS Chief Fire Officer Simon Shilton said: “I am incredibly proud of all the new recruits’ efforts, and am pleased to welcome them into Avon Fire & Rescue Service for what I hope will be long and successful careers.
“Aside from the challenging training that they’ve undertaken, the recruits have also had to contend with the after-effects of a pandemic. I’d like to extend my thanks to the recruits’ for their hard work and for the unwavering support of their families.
Those joining the station include FF Shepherd, from Green Watch, who said: “I am really looking forward to getting onto my watch in Bath and serving the community to the best of my ability.”
FF Chapman, from Blue Watch said: “I can’t wait to get started at Bath, Blue Watch. Working in the city I grew up in and helping the community I know so well.”
FF Gapper, Blue Watch added: “I am looking forward to new challenges the job will pose and the progressive learning that will be needed.
“With many opportunities available, I’m very excited to see where the service can take me.”
Joining Red Watch is FF Reader, and FF Roberts will be joining White Watch.
FF Reader said: “I’m really happy to be part of the AFRS team. I want to make my wife, family & friends proud as well as being an example to my daughter due in November this year.”
FF Roberts added: “After finding out that I’m being placed at Bath White Watch, I can’t wait to get started and meet the team.”
