King’s Birthday Honours List recognition for one of our volunteers

One of our volunteers had been recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours List, for exceptional service to the community.

Former fire officer and Retired Network Co-ordinator Andy Buttery will receive the British Empire Medal. Andy, who worked for 35 years as a firefighter, took up a voluntary role following his retirement from the service in 2010.

Andy’s role involves keeping a network of over 600 retired fire service personnel, updated on news and activities through regular emails and newsletters. He also runs a wellbeing group “Living Well” to provide a sociable experience for retired firefighters, with guest speakers from local organisations and information on how to stay healthy at you age, particularly to help those struggling with isolation and loneliness. Other support activities are also in place including the arranging of free health checks. The success of this group has led to the establishment of a walking club who meet on a regular basis for walks, followed by refreshments, to keep former staff active.

Volunteer Retired Network Coordinator, Andy Buttery commented: “It was a shock but also an honour to receive this recognition for doing a role that I get a great deal of satisfaction from. I thoroughly enjoyed my career in the fire service and by carrying out this function I am able to maintain contact with both the service and many former colleagues.”

Chief Fire Officer, Rob Barber said: “Andy’s passion and commitment, all on a voluntary basis, is remarkable. He is the epitome of fire service values and he is highly respected by both current and former staff.

“Our veterans have given so much during their service that it’s important for us to look after them into their retirement.

“For many the fire service is a career for life and people’s bond with the service doesn’t just end at the point they hang up their boots, which is why we have such a thriving retired network. Andy’s role in managing that network ensures that bond remains strong and that sense of camaraderie remains, which is important for the wellbeing of our retired personnel.”