New firefighters take up positions across Derbyshire

The 11 trainees have undertaken an intense 15-week training course at the services’ joint police and fire training centre in Ripley, equipping them with the knowledge and skills they need to become a firefighter responding to emergencies across Derbyshire.

Their training will now continue as they take up positions as firefighters in development at fire stations across the county, gaining real life experience responding to incidents.

Due to the current Covid-19 restrictions, a formal pass out ceremony for the trainees and their families has not been possible, however Derbyshire’s chief fire officer Gavin Tomlinson has formally recognised the newest additions to the service.

He said: “A firefighter’s training course is the first step in a rewarding career serving the communities of Derbyshire.

“The last 15 weeks will have prepared the trainees for the type of incidents that will face responding to incidents across the county, but they will now move into the development phase of their career, where with the support of established firefighters on station, they will get practical experience responding to real incidents.”

The 11 new firefighters have taken up positions on watches in Glossop, Long Eaton, Ilkeston and Buxton.

Mr Tomlinson added: “In addition to the support provided by all of the training team, I must acknowledge the families of our latest trainees.

"In any job the support of family and friends is invaluable, and the training of a firefighter is no exception to this.

"Long hours of both physical and classroom based learning is demanding, so thank you to all of the families that have supported them and I know this support will continue as they progress their career.

“Unfortunately due to the current Covid restrictions we have not been able to host a formal ceremony, but when the time is right and restrictions allow, I look forward to welcoming them all back to mark the occasion.”

To find out more about becoming a firefighter, visit www.derbys-fire.gov.uk/careers/become-a-firefighter.