Susan is pictured above with Keith (far right) and crew members from Beaconsfield Fire Station at this afternoon's presentation.

18 February 2009

There were no blue flashing lights or two-tone sirens, and they drove at normal road speed – but firefighters answered a vital call from Flackwell Heath Golf Club this afternoon.

Station Manager Keith Williams and a crew from Beaconsfield Fire Station were invited to make the two-mile trip to collect a cheque for £3,000 from Susan Jackson, the past year’s Ladies’ Captain.

It was made out to The Fire Fighters Charity, which provides assistance to serving and retired fire and rescue service staff, their families and dependants.

The money has been raised throughout Susan’s year at a number of special events and functions organised by the club.

Susan said: “The club has a long history of support for charities, and in particular to any that has touched the life of a member. When I became captain it was a wonderful opportunity for me to bring awareness to a charity which has been part of my life. 

“Six members of my family, including my grandfather, father and two brothers, have given service over three generations. We have been thankful for the support of the charity on two occasions.”

Her father, Frank Taylor CBE, was the last Chief Fire Officer of Liverpool (1962-74) and the first Chief Fire Officer of Merseyside (1974-76). Last year, Merseyside Fire & Rescue Authority named a river rescue boat in his honour.

It was her young brother Nigel, who served in Cheshire, who really brought home the vital role played by the charity. 

Susan said: “In 1995, while attending a car fire, he was badly injured in an explosion. After a considerable time on sick leave he had to take early retirement. During that time he was given a tremendous amount of help by the charity.”

It has also helped look after one of Susan’s aunts following the death of an uncle who served with the London Fire Brigade.

Station Manager Keith Williams, who is also treasurer of the Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service branch of the charity, said: “The donation is magnificent and the story behind it is amazing.

“We would like to thank Susan and Flackwell Heath Golf Club for their generosity. This money will help the charity carry on providing support and assistance to the thousands of people who need its services.”