Melksham firefighter honoured for long service

A MELKSHAM resident has received an award for over 20 years’ service to Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

Dan Epps, who currently works as an equipment technician at the fire service’s workshops in Bowerhill, was given a ‘Long Service and Good Conduct Medal’ at last month’s annual awards ceremony. 

A spokesperson for the Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said, “Dan started working for the Service in November 2000. He was an on-call firefighter in Bradford on Avon for 15 years, he was also a hydrant technician for five years, and has been in his current job as an equipment technician since 2014, based at our workshops in Bowerhill. His job involves servicing and repairing hydraulic rescue equipment, ladders, light portable pumps and positive pressure ventilation fans.” 

Dan received his award at a ceremony held at Tidworth Garrison Theatre, the first ceremony to be held in-person after two years of online ceremonies due to the Coronavirus pandemic. 

The event recognised staff achieving 20 years and 40 years of public service. There were also presentations of Chief Fire Officer’s Commendations, recognising meritorious conduct that is above and beyond the call of duty, by staff, volunteers, partners and members of the public, as well as awards for Making a Difference, Young Achiever and On-Call Employers. 

Long Service and Good Conduct Medals were presented to staff on behalf of HM The Queen by the Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire, Sarah Rose Troughton, and the Deputy Lieutenant of Dorset, Catriona Payne.  

Chief Fire Officer Ben Ansell said, “After two years of online ceremonies, it was wonderful to bring everyone together to celebrate the depth and breadth of work being delivered by all parts of our Service, across our prevention, protection, emergency response and corporate functions.  

“We are truly ‘One Team’, working together to be trusted community leaders, supporting individuals, businesses, groups and partners to be as safe as they can be across the constituent authorities of Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole, Dorset, Swindon and Wiltshire. 

“As well as recognising the achievements of our staff, it has been an opportunity to personally thank the families and friends who have supported them and the work of our Service.  It is often this support that has enabled the quite outstanding achievements to take place.”