Essex County Fire and Rescue Service welcomes new firefighters and control operators 

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service has proudly welcomed 16 new firefighters and three new control operators to the Service.  

The new recruits will be working to make Essex safer. The firefighters will be heading to Grays, Basildon, Southend, Harlow and Chelmsford, plus West Mersea and Ongar and the control operators will be based at the control room at Service Headquarters in Kelvedon. 

The passing out ceremony took place at the Service Training Centre in Witham on Friday 7 June in front of Chief Fire Officer/Chief Executive Rick Hylton. 

The new recruits showcased their training by performing two drills while proud family, friends and colleagues watched on. The ceremony was also live streamed for those who couldn’t make it in person. 

Rick Hylton, Chief Fire Officer/Chief Executive, welcomed the recruits to the Service.  

He said: “It is with great pride that I am welcoming our new firefighters and control colleagues to our Service. 

"Over the past 17 weeks, they have undergone rigorous training, with the passing out parade showcasing their outstanding skills and dedication. This is an important milestone and I wish them every success in their careers as they contribute to making Essex a safer place to live, work and travel.” 

Firefighter Toby Costigan was presented with a special award, recognising his teamwork, professionalism and determination during the course.  

If you think this role is for you, Essex County Fire and Rescue Service is recruiting firefighters.  

To become part of an organisation that values inclusivity and diversity and really makes a difference to people’s lives go to https://www.essex-fire.gov.uk/recruitment/join-essex-fire