New Wholetime Firefighters Celebrate Their Pass-Out Parade
New fire service recruits have marked the end of their training at a celebratory pass-out parade.
On the afternoon of 4 December 2024, 10 new wholetime firefighters and one Fire Control recruit marked the successful completion of their training with a pass-out parade at Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service Headquarters in Kempston.
The event provided an opportunity for the recruits to demonstrate their newly acquired skills to their families, friends, and BFRS colleagues. Their training covered a wide range of essential firefighter skills, including ladder drills, hose handling, road traffic collision response, working at height, water rescue, and trauma care. These rigorous sessions are designed to prepare recruits for the challenges of protecting communities across Bedfordshire.
Chief Fire Officer (CFO) Andrew Hopkinson presented certificates to the recruits. Speaking at the event, CFO Hopkinson said: “We are proud to welcome this cohort of dedicated individuals to their new roles as wholetime firefighters and Fire Control staff. Their training has been intensive, equipping them with the knowledge and resilience to serve the people of Bedfordshire with professionalism and compassion.
“Today’s ceremony not only celebrates their achievements but also recognises the sacrifices made by their loved ones during this demanding period. I look forward to seeing their careers flourish as they join their colleagues in making Bedfordshire a safer place.”
The Fire and Rescue Authority (FRA) was represented at the event by Councillor Michael Headley.
The wholetime firefighters include:
• FF Harry Andrew
• FF Craig Bell
• FF Tom Bellinger
• FF Millie Dudley
• FF Cameron Hudson
• FF John McGowan
• FF Matt Percy
• FF David Robson
• FF George Thornley
• FF Alan Trayte
Fire Control recruit Suzanne Tomlinson also completed her initial training.
The prestigious Instructor’s Award was presented to FF Cameron Hudson, recognising their outstanding practical and theoretical performance, as well as their exemplary teamwork throughout the training course.
The pass-out parade programme included practical demonstrations of firefighting techniques and insights into the recruits’ training journey, delivered by Station Commander Matthew Blanchard and Watch Commander Control Karen Crane. Group Commander Anthony Doherty provided an overview of the recruits’ progression, while CFO Hopkinson concluded the event with closing remarks.
The event underscores the Service’s ongoing commitment to recruiting and developing skilled firefighters to serve their communities. Further details about a career with Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service can be found here.
