Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) has celebrated the latest addition of 24 new firefighters at their pass out parade.

The ceremony, at the Training and Safety Centre in Bury, Wednesday, May 28, marked the end of the initial operational training for the new recruits.

Family and friends of the firefighters were present to watch the practical demonstrations, and to see their loved ones receive their certificates.The parade took place at the Training and Safety Centre in BuryThe parade took place at the Training and Safety Centre in Bury (Image: GMFRS)

The trainees have now been assigned to community fire stations throughout Greater Manchester.

At the event, Chief Fire Officer (CFO) Dave Russel presented each firefighter with their Passing Out certificate, acknowledging the successful completion of their initial training course.

The Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Greater Manchester, Sharman Birtles MBE JP DL, represented the King and gave the academic achievement award.Left, Samantha Fleck who won the Academic and Silver Axe Awards, Samuel Noar who won the Fitness Award and Cerys Griffiths who won the ‘Stephen Hunt’ Endeavour Award.Left, Samantha Fleck who won the Academic and Silver Axe Awards, Samuel Noar who won the Fitness Award and Cerys Griffiths who won the ‘Stephen Hunt’ Endeavour Award. (Image: GMFRS)

A number of individual awards were given to select firefighters.

The ‘Stephen Hunt’ Endeavour award went to Cerys Griffiths, while the Academic and Silver Axe awards were presented to Samantha Fleck.

The Fitness award was given to Samuel Noar.

The new recruits will now continue their apprenticeships, lasting two years, at community fire stations.

The apprenticeship has been nationally developed to equip them with the necessary skills, knowledge, and behaviours needed to be competent firefighters.

After an end point assessment, the trainee firefighters will gain a nationally recognised qualification.

If you are interested in becoming a firefighter in Greater Manchester, you can find more information on GMFRS’ website.