New East Preston firefighter welcomed

A NEW firefighter has been welcomed into the fold in East Preston, after graduating from his demanding training course.

Freshly graduated firefighter Chris Harrison has spent months of gruelling, physical training, to learn all the life-saving skills necessary to become one of East Preston fire station’s retained crew.

Chris has proved he can handle the heat and now serves the village and surrounding area.

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He said he was “overwhelmed” by the chance to join the service and that he was looking forward to becoming an integral part of the community and helping to save lives.

Chris was presented with a certificate at the station, in North Lane, by area manager, Neil Stocker.

Neil said: “I am delighted to welcome Chris into West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service. His training has been of the highest professional standard and I am confident he will be valuable member of the service.”

Chris is now part of the retained duty system of firefighters, who between them, help to fully crew 14 of 25 fire stations in West Sussex, including the village’s station. A number of retained members also help staff the neighbouring Littlehampton fire station.

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West Sussex is now looking for more people to follow in Chris’ footsteps, and train as retained firefighters. All applicants need to live or work within four minutes’ travel of the fire station, be over 18 and have a good level of fitness. For more information, call 01243 642134 or visit www.westsussex.gov.uk/fire