8 May 2009

Broughton Fire Station was pipped at the post last night in its bid to become The Fire Fighters Charity Station of the Year 2009.

The Milton Keynes station was one of four contenders which hoped to claim the title recognising the station that has “performed its rescue duties with outstanding dedication and supported the fire services’ community through The Fire Fighters Charity”.

Station Manager Geoff Bottle, who attended the annual award ceremony at Wembley Stadium was also invited along with all category finalists to a reception with Prime Minister Gordon Brown at 10 Downing Street in the afternoon.

Geoff said: “It was a great achievement to be selected as a finalist and an honour to be involved in such a prestigious event.”

Other award categories included The Fire Fighters Charity Brigade of the Year, Britain’s Bravest Firefighter, Fire Services’ Public Adult Hero and Fire Services’ Public Child Hero.

Geoff added: “To be recognised alongside individuals and teams from the fire and rescue service, and members of the public, who have shown extreme bravery and courage in fire and rescue situations was a very humbling experience.”

The nomination was made in light of the station’s consistent annual fundraising efforts which after dedicating many off and on duty hours, has seen them repeatedly raise large amounts of cash for The Fire Fighters Charity and other local worthwhile causes – alongside the recent commendation received by thefirefighters for their part in a rescue last September of two people from a fire inFishermead, Milton Keynes.

The station has a regular programme of fundraising activities including its annual open day, car washes, street collections and each year helping empty the thecentre:MK’s wishing pool following its Christmas collection.

Kelso Fire Station, Roxburghshire, was the eventual winner of The Fire Fighters Charity Station of the Year Award 2009.