Dorchester firefighters have been awarded for their long service and businesses recognised for their support in the fire authority's annual awards.

The Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service's annual awards ceremony has been held virtually, due to the continued challenges of the coronavirus pandemic.

Long Service and Good Conduct medals were presented to staff at the virtual ceremony and was attended by Lord Lieutenant of Dorset, Mr Angus Campbell, and the deputy Lieutenant of Wiltshire, Mr David Scott, who congratulated all those involved.

Crew managers Michelle Rodway and Simon Spicer of Dorchester Fire Station received Long Service and Good Conduct medals while Paul Ackerman, of Bathroom Inspirations Ltd, was awarded On-Call Employer of the Year for his support to Dorchester Fire Station.

Chief Fire Officer Ben Ansell said: "Our annual awards ceremony is our chance to recognise the extraordinary work being done in all parts of our organisation, and to feel real pride in how we help and support individuals, businesses, partner agencies and the wider communities across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, Dorset, Swindon and Wiltshire.

"It is also my chance to say thank you to the families, friends and employers who have supported our staff and the work of our service. It is often this support that has enabled the quite outstanding achievements to take place, so it was really good to see so many family members were able to join us online."

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