Fire and rescue service colleagues recognised in New Year Honours

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has welcomed the New Year Honours 2026 which includes a number of people from fire and rescue services.

NFCC Chair Phil Garrigan praised those honoured for their exceptional commitment, outstanding service, and leadership across fire and rescue services, emphasising that their efforts have left a profound and lasting mark on both the profession and the communities they protect.

Phil Garrigan said:

“I am delighted to congratulate colleagues from across the fire and rescue sector who have received well-deserved recognition in the New Year Honours.

“This reflects the remarkable dedication, professionalism and leadership shown by individuals whose work has made a real difference in their communities. Their achievement is a source of pride for the entire UK fire and rescue family.

“The contributions of those honoured remind us of the exceptional calibre of people who choose this profession – individuals who consistently go above and beyond to protect the public. The list also includes those who currently or have previously played a significant national role for and on behalf of NFCC.

“This recognition also gives us the chance to acknowledge the incredible work carried out every day by all fire and rescue personnel whose service helps to ensure the safety and resilience of our communities.”

The list below highlights people from fire and rescue services who have received an Honour.

King’s Fire Service Medal (KFSM)

• Wayne Bowcock, Chief Fire Officer and Chief Executive, Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service.
• Hannah Caulfield, Group Manager, Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service.
• Mark Christian, Chief Fire Officer, Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service.
• Alexander Muir, Firefighter, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.
• Jane Philpott, lately Deputy Chief Fire Officer, States of Jersey Fire and Rescue Service.
• Charles Pugsley, lately Deputy Commissioner, London Fire Brigade.
• Stuart Stevens, Chief Officer, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)

• Peter Fitzpatrick, Station Manager, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Burn Victims.

Medallists of the Order of the British Empire (BEM)

• Michael Nicholson, Crew Manager, Clough Road and Hull Central Fire Stations, Humberside Fire and Rescue Service. For services to the Humberside Fire and Rescue Service and to the community in Humberside.