Fire Cadets from across the UK demonstrated exceptional skill, teamwork and professionalism at the UK Fire Cadets’ Casualty Care Challenge during the United Kingdom Rescue Organisation (UKRO) Festival of Rescue 2026.
Hosted by Essex County Fire and Rescue Service at the University of Essex in Colchester on 12 September, the challenge brought together Fire Cadet teams from Northamptonshire, Cumbria, South Yorkshire, Essex, Lincolnshire, and Hereford & Worcester to test their casualty care and first aid skills in realistic emergency scenarios.
The competition saw Fire Cadets assessed on their ability to provide immediate care, communicate effectively and work together under pressure, with judging led by Lincolnshire-based charity LIVES.
After a highly competitive event, Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service secured both first and second place, with Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service Team 2 taking third place.
Rhys Morgan from Hereford & Worcester FRS and Mia Rodda from Cumbria FRS also each received the coveted Cadet of the Day Chair’s Award, reflecting their outstanding standard in leadership, communication and confidence in dealing with casualties and challenging situations.
The event attracted praise from judges, organisers and spectators, with all teams impressing through their technical ability, confidence and professionalism.
Mark Baxter, NFCC Executive Lead for Children and Young People, said:
“The standard of performance throughout the challenge was exceptional. Every team demonstrated impressive first aid skills, teamwork and resilience, and they should be incredibly proud of what they achieved.
“Congratulations to Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service for securing first and second place, and to Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service for their third-place finish. The challenge highlighted the remarkable talent, dedication and commitment of Fire Cadets across the UK.
“These young people are fantastic ambassadors for their communities and fire and rescue services. Their professionalism and enthusiasm throughout the weekend showcased everything that is great about the UK Fire Cadets programme.”
The day concluded with a dedicated Fire Cadet awards ceremony, which provided an opportunity to recognise achievements and celebrate the contribution of all teams who took part.
In addition to competing, Cadets were able to experience the wider UKRO Festival of Rescue, watching firefighters and emergency responders compete in national rescue challenges and gaining valuable insight into the skills required at real-life incidents.
The UK Fire Cadets’ Casualty Care Challenge forms part of the UK Fire Cadets programme, which helps young people build confidence, develop life skills, support their communities and explore opportunities within the fire and rescue sector.
Mark Baxter added:
“The success of this event is a testament to the commitment of Fire Cadet leaders, fire and rescue services and families who support these young people throughout their journey. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make the challenge such a memorable and inspiring experience.”
Results
- 1st Place: TEAM 1 Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service
Rhys Morgan, Mia Freeman and Oliver Hope
- 2nd Place: TEAM 2 Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service
Josh Kelleher, Emily Britton and Justin Honey
- 3rd Place: TEAM 2 Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service Team
Ryan-Birt Read, Mia Rodda and Chloe Brooks
- Cadet of the Day Chair’s Award:
Rhys Morgan, Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service
Mia Rodda, Cumbria Fire and Rescue
ENDS
Notes to editors: The UK Fire Cadets’ Casualty Care Challenge took place as part of the UKRO Festival of Rescue 2026, hosted by Essex County Fire and Rescue Service at the University of Essex, Colchester. The challenge tests casualty care, teamwork, communication and problem-solving skills through realistic emergency scenarios.