Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service has celebrated the achievements of its staff, volunteers, partners and community organisations at its 2026 awards ceremony.
Held at Trinity Park on Wednesday 21 October, the event recognised individuals and teams whose dedication, professionalism and commitment make Suffolk a safer and more resilient place to live.
This year's ceremony carried particular significance. It followed a year that included the major incident at Dunwich Heath and took place just days after Chief Fire Officer and Executive Director for Public Safety Jon Lacey announced his retirement.
The ceremony was attended by award recipients and their guests, together with dignitaries including His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant for Suffolk Mark Pendlington, High Sheriff of Suffolk Oliver Paul DL, Chairman of Suffolk County Council Councillor Louis Busuttil, and Suffolk County Council's Cabinet Member for Planning, Devolution and the Fire Service Councillor Tristan Gale.
Among the evening's award winners were the Operational Training Team, which received the Cabinet Member Award for Team Achievement, Brandon and Mildenhall Fire Stations, which received the Miles Hammond Trophy, and Mid Suffolk Rotary, winner of the Excellence in Community Safety Award.
A Chief Fire Officer Commendation was also presented to James King and Kit Crawley of Suffolk Tree Services for their assistance during an incident in Acton earlier this year.
The ceremony also recognised outstanding long-term service. Lifetime Achievement Awards were presented to retired Station Manager Russell Punchard and retired Crew Manager Robert Deeks, recognising 43 and 42 years of dedicated service respectively.
Councillor Tristan Gale, Suffolk County Council's Cabinet Member for Planning, Devolution and the Fire Service, said:
"The events of the past year have highlighted the importance of a resilient fire and rescue service, strong partnerships and communities that are willing to support one another when it matters most.
"The people recognised this evening have helped strengthen that resilience across Suffolk through their service, innovation and commitment to helping others.
"These awards provide a well-deserved opportunity to celebrate their achievements and thank them for the positive difference they make to people's lives every day."
Jon Lacey, Chief Fire Officer and Executive Director for Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service, said:
"This has been a year that has tested us and demonstrated the very best of our Service. From major incidents to everyday emergencies, I have seen colleagues, volunteers and partners repeatedly step forward to support our communities.
"As I prepare to retire, it feels particularly fitting to have the opportunity to recognise the individuals and teams whose dedication, professionalism and compassion make Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service such a special organisation and help keep the people of Suffolk and those who visit our county safe.
"I offer my sincere congratulations to everyone recognised this evening and thank all those who continue to serve Suffolk with such commitment and pride."
The evening also included recognition of the support provided by businesses, community members and voluntary organisations during the Dunwich Heath incident, highlighting the vital role that partnership working plays in helping keep Suffolk's communities safe during major emergencies.
Award recipients
Cabinet Member Award for Team Achievement - Operational Training Team
Cabinet Member Award for Volunteer of the Year - Community Fire Volunteer Simon Cusworth
Excellence in Community Safety Award - Mid Suffolk Rotary
The Alan Soards Award for Best Fire Station - Clare Fire Station
Miles Hammond Trophy - Brandon and Mildenhall Fire Stations
Derek Northey Trophy – Watch Manager Paul Shattock
The Paul Proctor Award – Station Manager Tim Berry
Award for Recruit of the Year - Firefighter Karl Anderson
Award for Most Improved On-Call Station - Haverhill Fire Station
Award for Excellence in Multi-Agency Working - Principal Trading Standards Officer Mark Skillin
SWIFT Award - Driver Training Team
Lifetime Achievement Awards – Retired Station Manager Russell Punchard and retired Crew Manager Robert Deeks
Suffolk Resilience Forum Outstanding Multi-Agency Collaboration Award - Jane Hallinan, Health Protection Lead, Public Health & Communities, Suffolk County Council
Suffolk Resilience Forum Excellence in Emergency Planning, Preparedness and Response Award - Craig King, NILO/Resilience Manager, East of England Ambulance Service
Chief Fire Officer Commendation - James King and Kit Crawley, Suffolk Tree Services
His Majesty the King's Long Service and Good Conduct Medals (20 Years)
His Majesty the King's Long Service and Good Conduct Clasps (30 Years)
30 Years' Service Certificate
Certificates of Merit
