Outstanding contribution of fire and rescue service personnel recognised in King’s Birthday Honours

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) welcomes the announcement of the King’s Birthday Honours, published by His Majesty the King, which recognises people from across the fire and rescue services community.

NFCC Chair, Phil Garrigan, praised those who have been honoured, highlighting their exceptional commitment, leadership and service.

Phil Garrigan said:

“I would like to offer my sincere congratulations to all those across fire and rescue services who have been recognised in this year’s King’s Birthday Honours.

“These awards recognise individuals whose commitment, professionalism and leadership make a real difference within their services and in the communities they serve. Their contribution speaks to the strength of our sector and the values we uphold every day.

“The wide range of recipients reflects the breadth of roles and expertise across our services. It is a reminder that keeping the public safe relies on many different skills, all delivered to a consistently high standard and with a deep sense of pride and purpose.

“While the recipients are rightly recognised for their achievements, they would be the first to acknowledge the support they have received from the teams around them – together, they play a vital role in keeping our communities safe.

“Today is a proud day not only for those recognised, but for those who have helped and supported them – their families’ friends and colleagues – thank you.”

 

The list below sets out the individuals from fire and rescue services who have received an honour.

King’s Fire Service Medal (KFSM)

• Amanda Dixon, Temporary Group Manager, County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service.
• Chris Getty, Area Commander, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.
• Stewart Nicholson, Chief Fire Officer, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue.
• Ian Nicolson, On Call Support Watch Commander, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.
• Patrick Quinn, Station Commander, Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service
• Jonathan Smith, London Fire Commissioner, London Fire Brigade.

Order of the British Empire (OBE)

• Dr Colin Richardson, Assistant Professor, Northumbria University. For services to Firefighter Safety.

British Empire Medal (BEM) 

• Paul Horton, Trustee and Volunteer, Mansfield Fire Station and Museum. For services to the community in Mansfield and Nottinghamshire.
• Keith Prince, On-call Firefighter, Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service.  For services to the community in Cranborne, Dorset.
• Lee Ralph, Firefighter, Avon Fire and Rescue Service. For services to Mental Health, Wellbeing, and Resilience in the Fire and Rescue Sector.