Public Choice Awards 2025
Members of the public are being invited to cast their votes for their fire service and police heroes in the 2025 Annual Awards.
Hosted jointly by North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service and North Yorkshire Police , the awards celebrate exceptional contributions made by officers, staff, and volunteers across both organisations.
From acts of bravery on the frontline to the dedication of those working behind the scenes, the awards shine a spotlight on the teams and individuals who go above and beyond to keep York and North Yorkshire safe.
Voting is now open for the Public Choice Award, giving the community a chance to choose who should receive the prestigious title of ‘people’s choice’. Finalists from each service have been selected from a range of award categories, showcasing the very best of both organisations.
Follow the link at the bottom of this page to vote for the North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service award. You can visit the North Yorkshire Police website to vote in their category.
The winners will be announced at a ceremony on Friday 14 November.
Training Centre
The Training Centre team were specifically mentioned in North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Services HMICFRS inspection report this year as demonstrating an outstanding work ethic with their contributions producing a positive impact on the organisation.
The team’s dedication and commitment to excellence has resulted in a change in the culture at our training centre. Significant collaboration across multiple departments has been required to overcome numerous technical and logistical challenges.
The Operational training team have executed the implementation of Fires in Tall buildings procedures following the Grenfell report, the Maintenance of Competence programme, delivered training across the county to all operational personnel on the new MSA Breathing Apparatus sets, delivered a wholetime recruits’ course and are preparing another.
The Incident command team have developed new courses for incident commanders to provide additional learning and support back in the suite which has been refreshed and upgraded, a significant project.
Driver training continues to exceed expectations with such a small team while demonstrating a commitment to maintain business as usual.
The Team has worked hard to ensure that the HMICFRS inspection result of ‘good’ was achieved this year, but they are not complacent. They already have projects underway to improve the Maintenance of Competence Programme and facilities at Training Centre based on feedback from employees.
All of this requires the support of an admin team and learning and development advisor who work tirelessly behind the scenes.
The Training Centre truly embodies the values of the organisation and demonstrates the value of great teamwork.
Sara M Dobson, Project Manager, Service Design and Delivery
Since joining NYFRS in May 2024, Sara has shown exceptional dedication in leading two complex and high-impact projects that have significantly enhanced the safety and operational efficiency of the Service.
Despite having no prior operational background in Fire and Rescue standards, Sara successfully managed the transformation of NYFRS’s breathing apparatus. This included the procurement, integration, and roll-out of new technology that has already improved firefighter safety during emergencies and training. She ensured the project met both immediate and long-term safety standards, working closely with stakeholders to deliver a smooth implementation with minimal disruption to operations.
Sara also led the upgrade of the Fire System CFRMIS, improving fire risk assessments, incident reporting, and resource allocation. Her collaboration with ICT and procurement ensured the system was developed and delivered in line with operational needs. The upgrade has resulted in faster reporting, better data analytics, and more efficient resource management—enhancing response times and overall effectiveness.
Throughout both projects, Sara demonstrated a deep understanding of technical and operational requirements, ensuring solutions were both sound and practical. Her professionalism, leadership, and commitment have been consistently praised by colleagues and have made a lasting positive impact on NYFRS.
Firefighter Ian Thompson
Ian Thompson’s exemplary service during the Langdale Wildfire Major Incident in August–September 2025 highlights his outstanding contribution to NYFRS. The wildfire was one of the most severe moorland fires in recent memory, threatening lives, property, infrastructure, and unique habitats. Ian’s deep local knowledge and ability to anticipate the fire’s behaviour proved critical to the response effort.
As a key member of the team, Ian supported strategic planning with his expertise in terrain and fire spread, enabling effective deployment of resources and safeguarding both personnel and the community. He worked tirelessly, often through long hours, demonstrating his commitment and professionalism.
Ian also played a vital liaison role between emergency services, gamekeepers, and the local farming community. His collaborative approach ensured local knowledge and resources were fully integrated into the firefighting strategy, enhancing cohesion and effectiveness.
His contributions included advising on safe access routes, appropriate firefighting techniques, and optimal crew placement. These efforts were critical in adapting to the dynamic conditions and limiting the fire’s spread.
While the fire caused significant damage, Ian’s involvement directly contributed to its containment and control, preventing further loss and protecting critical infrastructure and habitats.
Ian’s dedication, expertise, and leadership during the Langdale Wildfire have left a lasting impact on our service and community.
Cast your vote for the North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service Public Choice Award 2025
Please note, voting closes on Sunday 26 October 2025. You will not be able to vote after this date.
