Pembroke Dock’s fire fighters are the best in the west – and that’s official!

Last Friday they had a night to remember when they were named the Western Division Station of the Year at the ‘More Than Just Fire Awards 2022’ which were held at the Stradey Park Hotel and Spa in Llanelli.

But it wasn’t just the crew that received a top award. Fire Fighter Hywel Matthews won the area’s Chief Fire Officer Award for Bravery while his colleague Phillip Barry, the crew manager, was nominated for his outstanding contribution to service award. 

“Hywel was shopping at a local supermarket whilst off duty when a member of the public went into cardiac arrest," explained a spokesperson for the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service.

" Hywel immediately took control of the situation, giving direction to the supermarket staff and members of the public.  He gave the patient compressions and sourced the nearest defibrillator.

"There's no doubt that the survival of this person was down to Hywel’s calm and methodical approach."

"Hywel has been in the Service less than a year and has already made a positive mark. We look forward to watching him continue to build confidence and thrive on his Fire and Rescue Service journey.”

Western Telegraph: Last week's awards ceremony at Stradey ParkLast week's awards ceremony at Stradey Park (Image: MWWFS)

Pembroke Dock Fire Station’s achievements last week were even more laudable when you consider that the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service covers the largest area in both England and Wales.

It covers a predominantly rural area of 4,500 square miles and extends from Swansea and westwards to Neath Port Talbot, Powys, Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion. It currently has 57 stations and holds a staff total of around 1,400.

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“We were in some incredible company at the ‘More Than Just Fire Awards’ and witnessed some amazing people receiving nominations and awards for all their hard work and commitment to their roles,” commented a spokesperson for Pembroke Dock Fire Station.

“But naturally the cherry on the cake was coming home with our awards and nominations.

“We just want to thank our community for their continued support for our service. We’re proud to serve you all.”