The Company dedicated its annual award to FIRE AID founding member the United Kingdom Rescue Organisation (UKRO) presenting UKRO International Development Programme (IDP) officers Cameron Black and Stevie Nesbit with the Certificate of Commendation. 

The Worshipful Company of Firefighters was formed by Gerald Clarkson (now father of the Company) in 1988 and was recognised by the City of London on the 13 June 1988. The prime objective and intention of The Worshipful Company of Firefighters is to promote the development and advancement of the science, art and the practice of firefighting, fire prevention and life safety. It also encourages good professional behavior and an exchange of information between Members of the Company and others who work in allied fields.

The Company dedicated its annual award to FIRE AID founding member the United Kingdom Rescue Organisation (UKRO) presenting UKRO International Development Programme (IDP) officers Cameron Black and Stevie Nesbit with the Certificate of Commendation.  The UKRO were nominated for this prestigious award by the Chief Fire Officers Association (CFOA) in recognition of the UKRO’s outstanding achievements and successful humanitarian contribution to the reduction of the loss of human life in the United Kingdom and in communities worldwide.

Stevie Nesbit and Cameron Black accepting the Certificate of Commendation on behalf of the UKRO

The annual award ceremony took place in Trinity House, London in October and was hosted by the Master of the Company Bryan Spearman. Bryan said “The UKRO is made up of volunteers from across the UK Fire & Rescue and Medical Services.  It exists to reduce the overall need for rescue interventions by the emergency services, and to ensure that those rescues which do take place are effected to the highest possible standards. The organisation is best known for its annual Rescue Challenge, which is now the largest of its kind in the world, and covers rescue disciplines including those from vehicles, height, water and collapsed structures, and incorporates the Trauma Challenge. The learning and sharing of expertise between participants is well recognised and the benefit to those services taking part is well documented”.

A major part of the organisation’s work is its International Development Programme (IDP).  The IDP has been running for the past 12 years and it seeks to work closely with Governments whose countries are facing the greatest challenges in relation to road traffic collisions. The UKRO is a founder member of FIRE AID and a major contributor to the equipment database.  The UKRO IDP has had considerable successes in Ghana, Russia, Romania and Moldova in addition to its work with colleagues in Western Europe.

The UKRO wishes to thank Master of the Company Bryan Spearman and the members of The Worshipful Company of Firefighters for the Certificate of Commendation and their hospitality.