Royal award for Chief Fire Officer

Friday 10 June 2016

Jersey's Chief Fire Officer was at Buckingham Palace this week to pick up a royal award from the Prince of Wales.

Mark James received the Queen's Fire Service Medal, QFSM, for distinguished service at the special ceremony in London.

Mark said: "I am very proud to receive this honour which not only recognises my personal contributions to the Fire and Rescue Service but also the contributions and dedication of all the staff in Jersey Fire and Rescue Service.

“It was an incredible day, I only wish I could have taken everyone who has supported my career with me."

Mark's wife Jane and daughter Tegan joined him for the ceremony.

The Queen's Fire Service Medal was first introduced on 19 May 1954 and is awarded to members of the fire services in the United Kingdom and Commonwealth of Nations for distinguished service or gallantry.

Mark has been in the role since June 2007, after spending the first part of his career working in Essex. He has recently taken on responsibility for emergency planning, on top of the job of running the Jersey Fire and Rescue Service.

Picture credit: Jersey Fire & Rescue Service