11 December 2007

There was a surprise in store for Councillor Freda Roberts at Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service’s medal ceremony on Friday.

After overseeing the formal presentations to staff in recognition of their long service, good conduct and professionalism, Chief Fire Officer Damian Smith presented Mrs Roberts with a bouquet and a bottle of Champagne to thank her for all her hard work during her 10 years as a member of Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes Fire & Rescue Authority – and a unique cake iced with an edible photograph of herself to celebrate her birthday!

Mrs Roberts, who was also a member of the authority’s predecessor, Buckinghamshire County Council’s public protection committee, completed her term of office with the authority in June this year.

Mr Smith said: “Over many years, Freda has been a great servant to the authority who has been committed to working with everyone in the brigade.”

Staff who received awards are pictured above with Mrs Roberts and her gifts. From left to right they are: Area Manager Denis O'Driscoll, Firefighter Jim Hutchison, Watch Manager Lloyd Davis, Crew Manager Stuart Irwin and Firefighter Jerry Akuffo.