Cheshire's First Lady award

Gillian Dimelow, Watch Manager at Audlem Fire Station, has become the first female operational firefighter in Cheshire to receive the Long Service Good Conduct medal for having completed twenty years exemplary service.

Gillian received her medal from Cheshire's Lord Lieutenant, David Briggs, at an awards ceremony in Warrington.

Joining the service in October 1990, Gillian was promoted to Crew Manager in May 2003. In February 2009 she was appointed as Temporary Watch Manager and has spent all her time in Audlem.

Ten years ago, Gill took up a role as a Fire and Rescue Service driving instructor, covering all types of vehicles used in the service, having previously held a similar position with Cheshire Police.

The Lord Lieutenant said: "The Fire Service Long Service and Good Conduct Medal is issued by Royal Warrant, and I was therefore honoured to make the awards on behalf of Her Majesty.

"I extend my sincere congratulations to all medal recipients on achieving twenty years exemplary service. The job they do requires humility and respect often delivered under arduous conditions. Theirs is a special job, a vocation for which they have been deservedly honoured.

Chief Fire Officer Paul Hancock added his congratulations and we are sure all in Audlem and district extend their best wishes to Gillian on this outstanding award.

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