Members of the UK’s fire and rescue services have been recognised in King Charles III’s 2023 Birthday Honours list, the first since his crowning.

Heartfelt congratulations

The Chair of the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), Mark Hardingham, expressed his delight at the recognition of his colleagues’ dedicated service and leadership in the sector. Without revealing his full statement, he particularly acknowledged those “[…] who have played such significant national roles with the NFCC receiving recognition”. He equally appreciated the efforts of colleagues working alongside and in support of fire and rescue services, and commended the year-round work that these individuals contribute to their communities.

List of honoured fire service colleagues

Several people from fire and rescue services have received King’s Birthday Honours. The recognitions range from OBE to MBE and BEM, as well as the King’s Fire Service Medal.

Among those receiving the Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) were Keith Donnelly, Fire and Rescue Service Advisor UK, and Andrew Ledgerton-Lynch, Editor, Fire Magazine. The latter was recognised for his services to The Fire Fighters Charity and Fire Safety.

The Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) was awarded to Karen Farr, Children and Young Persons Manager, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service. She was recognised for her services to young people and public safety.

The British Empire Medal (BEM) was bestowed on Robert Bonner, Russell Crispin, and Richard Clarke for their contributions to the fire and rescue heritage, the community in East London and the Fire Fighters Charity respectively.

In England and Wales, recipients of the King’s Fire Service Medal included Donna Joanne Bentley MBE, Roderic Andrew Hammerton, Peter Patrick Heath, and Gavin Andrew Tomlinson. In Scotland, Matt Acton, Area Commander, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, was recognised.

About the honours system

The honours system acknowledges individuals who have made significant contributions in public life and dedicated themselves to serving and helping Britain. Those who receive honours have either improved life for others or shown outstanding skill in their respective fields. Decisions on honours are made by a committee, then submitted to the Prime Minister and subsequently to the King, who bestows the honour.