Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service proudly celebrated the dedication and commitment of its staff at the annual Long Service Awards Ceremony, held on Thursday 1 October 2026
The ceremony brought together award recipients, colleagues, friends and family members to recognise individuals who have reached significant milestones in their careers, ranging from 20 years of service through to an extraordinary 48 years. Awards were presented by The Countess Howe DStJ, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Buckinghamshire.
The awards provide an opportunity to reflect on the contribution made by individuals across all areas of the Service. Whether responding to emergencies on the frontline, supporting operational activity, protecting communities through prevention work, or providing vital support services behind the scenes, every recipient has played an important role in helping keep Buckinghamshire safe.
This year’s ceremony recognised employees reaching milestones of 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40 years of service, alongside recipients of the Long Service and Good Conduct Medal. Together, the award recipients represent hundreds of years of dedicated public service, demonstrating exceptional commitment to both the organisation and the communities it serves.
Collectively, this year’s recipients represent more than 660 years of service to Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service. Their combined experience, knowledge and commitment have played a vital role in supporting the Service and helping to keep communities across Buckinghamshire safe.
Louise Harrison, Chief Fire Officer said:
“The Long Service and Good Conduct Ceremony is such an important part of BFRS tradition, and this was a particularly special occasion.
It gave us the opportunity not only to recognise the remarkable achievements, dedication and commitment of our colleagues, but also to celebrate those achievements alongside their families, friends and colleagues. Seeing the pride on the faces of those receiving awards, and particularly their families, was a wonderful reminder that long service is an achievement shared with those who support us throughout our careers.
It was an evening full of pride, warmth and celebration, and a fitting tribute to colleagues who have given so much through their commitment and service over many years.”
A special mention goes to Firefighter Neil Stafford, who was recognised for an extraordinary 48 years of service. Reaching such a remarkable milestone is a rare achievement and reflects a lifetime of dedication, experience and commitment to serving the people of Buckinghamshire.
Reflecting on the moment, Louise Harrison, Chief Fire Officer said:
“Without doubt, one of the most memorable moments of the evening was the recognition of Neil Stafford, who has dedicated an extraordinary 48 years of service to our communities. The standing ovation he received was a fitting and heartfelt acknowledgement of his exceptional dedication to duty and remarkable contribution over almost five decades.”
We would like to congratulate all award recipients and thank them for their outstanding service, dedication and commitment. Their professionalism, expertise and passion continue to make a difference every day, helping to protect and support the communities we proudly serve.