Annual Awards Winners 2025

The joint North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service and North Yorkshire Police Annual Awards Ceremony took place on 14th November at Sandburn Hall, recognising the outstanding efforts of staff from across the Service. These awards celebrate individuals and teams who have gone above and beyond to uphold our values and deliver exceptional service to our communities.

Chief Fire Officer Jonathan Dyson said: “These awards showcase the incredible dedication, professionalism and passion of our people. Every winner has made a significant contribution to the safety and wellbeing of our communities and their colleagues. I am proud to a part of such an exceptional team. Congratulations to all the winners.”

Details of all the winners can be found below:

Core Code of Ethics Award – People Services Business Partners Lynne Elliot and Rachel Day

Honoured for their unwavering commitment to fairness, integrity, and transparency in staffing decisions, Lynne and Rachel have fostered a culture of trust and accountability. Their collaborative approach and dedication to equity have strengthened teams and promoted inclusivity across NYFRS.

On-Call Firefighter Award – Watch Manager Richard Blackwell

Richard’s leadership at Bentham and Settle stations has driven innovative recruitment campaigns and boosted community engagement. His creative use of social media and tireless availability reflect his passion for improving the On-Call duty system and supporting local communities.

Leadership Award – Group Manager Tony Peel

Tony is an inspirational leader known for fairness, honesty, and practical problem-solving. A dedicated mentor, he motivates colleagues through challenges and builds strong partnerships across agencies. His professionalism and decisive nature have made him a trusted figure throughout the Service.

Team of the Year – Training Centre

Adam Lee, Watch Manager Direct Trainer, Andrea Grey, Training Centre Administration Assistant, Andrew Brear, Watch Manager Direct Trainer, Andrew Graves, Crew Manager Direct Trainer, Andy Daw, Station Manager Operational Training, Craig Lewis, Watch Manager Driver training, Craig Miller, Watch Manager Direct Trainer (Incident command), Darren Smith, Watch Manager Direct Trainer (Incident command), Dennis Tymon, Training Centre Support Technician, Gavin Laidlaw, Driver training, Instructor, Ian Perkins, Watch Manager Direct Trainer (Incident command), Jens Archer, Group Manager Operational Training, Jeremy Wilson, Crew Manager Direct Trainer, Jon Hancock, Crew Manager District Trainer, Katharine Whiteley, Training Centre Administration Assistant, Kenny Hurford, Driver Training Instructor, Mark Sykes, Watch Manager Direct Trainer, Mark Willshaw, Crew Manager District Trainer, Matt Crossland, Watch Manager Direct Trainer, Michelle Judson, E-Learning Coordinator, Neil Garner, Crew Manager Direct Trainer, Oliver Power, Crew Manager District Trainer, Paul James, Crew Manager Direct Trainer,Penny Sutton, Learning and Development Advisor, Sam Elliott, Crew Manager District Trainer, Rich Edkins, Crew Manager Direct Trainer, Russ Welburn, Watch Manager Direct Trainer, Nick Gregory, Crew Manager District Trainer, Shelley Mattocks, Operational training Administration

 Praised in the HMICFRS inspection for their outstanding work ethic, the Training Centre team has delivered critical projects including Grenfell-related procedures, new breathing apparatus training, and upgraded incident command facilities. Their collaboration and innovation have transformed operational training and exemplify NYFRS values.

Staff Member of the Year – Project Manager Sara Dobson

Since joining in 2024, Sara has led two major projects enhancing firefighter safety and operational efficiency: Her professionalism and leadership have made a lasting positive impact on NYFRS.

Firefighter of the Year – Firefighter Ian Thompson

Ian’s expertise during the Langdale Wildfire Major Incident was instrumental in containing one of the most severe moorland fires in recent memory. His local knowledge, strategic input and collaborative demonstrated exceptional dedication and professionalism.

Lifetime Achievement (Operational) – Watch Manager Valerie Grainger

Val has dedicated decades to Masham Fire Station, leading with integrity and promoting diversity. Known for her unwavering support and technical skill, she continues to inspire colleagues and uphold the Service values.

Lifetime Achievement (Support Staff) – Head of Finance Clare Godfrey

Clare’s exceptional contribution over more than 20 years have made a profound contribution to NYFRS. Clare intends. Her expertise and commitment have driven complex transitions and major projects, earning deep respect across the Service.

Unsung Hero –  Health & Wellbeing Nurse Amanda Hugill

Amanda is celebrated for her quiet strength and unwavering compassion as Health & Wellbeing Nurse. Always going above and beyond, she has supported colleagues through challenging times with empathy and care, making a profound difference to staff wellbeing.

Special Recognition – Group Manager Mark Naylor and Inspection Officer Michelle Porter

Mark and Michelle receive special recognition for their outstanding work on HMICFRS inspections. Their meticulous planning and commitment to improvement have been central to NYFRS achieving positive outcomes, reflecting the highest standards of professionalism and service values.

Public Choice Award Winner: Training Centre