18 new on-call firefighters for Derbyshire

Two women and 16 men have been welcomed into Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service and will be based at nine stations across the county – Alfreton, Belper, Clay Cross, Heanor, Ilkeston, Long Eaton, Matlock, Ripley and Shirebrook.

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They attended a passing out ceremony on Sunday which was attended by more than 100 of their closest family and friends.

Gavin Tomlinson, Derbyshire’s chief fire officer, said: “Becoming an on-call firefighter is a big commitment, being available to respond to a pager at a moment’s notice, ready to respond to all manner of emergency incidents.

“Each of our new firefighters has received the highest possible level of training from a dedicated team of professionals and I am confident that this will stand them in good stead as they join fire stations across the county. I wish them every success as they enter what I know to be a challenging, yet rewarding career.”

Collette Cullen, who will be stationed at Ripley fire station, said: “If anyone has ever considered training to be an on-call firefighter, please give it a go – it’s the best thing we’ve all ever done.”

A spokesperson for Derbyshire fire service said: “We actively seek applications for the role of an on-call firefighter throughout the year.

“For more information about the rewarding role of an on-call firefighter, visit www.oncallfire.uk where you can also register your interest in the role.”

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