Award celebrates commitment to supporting female firefighters 
London Fire Brigade hailed for its support of women in the fire service
The individual Gold Awards were given to Station Manager Sally Harper, Senior Control Officer Amelia Reynolds, Fiona Glenister, Marcia Kelly and also Ann-Marie Spencer, who received it post posthumously. A Bronze Award was given to London Fire Brigade Training Officer Tony Dunster, for his career long dedication to supporting women in the fire service.
Networking Women in the Fire Service is a national support organisation, and this is the second year they have held a ceremony to recognise the contribution of women across the fire and rescue service. Awards are presented to people and organisations that have contributed significant practical or moral support to the network, to women in the fire service, or to women's issues in general.
Councillor Rebekah Gilbert, Chair of the Human Resources, Equalities and Health and Safety Panel said; "Once again London leads the way in providing opportunities for women within the fire service. Being the first organisation to receive the gold award is an outstanding achievement. Awards like this are a tribute to all the hard work being done by our staff to create a more diverse workforce which truly reflects the communities we serve."
Individual awards:
- Station Manager Sally Harper won her award for championing women's issues in London and elsewhere, including working to improve personal development opportunities and facilities for women.
- Control Commander Amelia Reynolds won her award for commitment to supporting women in the fire service. Her work included campaigning sure to ensure control staff (999 operators) are given the best possible facilities and support.
- Ann-Marie Spencer won her award for being a pioneer of equality and diversity in the fire service; particularly her determination and commitment to the establishment and development of the NWFS.
- Fiona Glenister won her award for outstanding commitment to the support of women in the fire service, including dedicated service to NWFS
- Marcia Kelly won her award for immense maturity and resilience. Marcia spent years working in support of women in the fire service.
The award is endorsed by UK and Scottish fire ministers and will be presented at a gala evening later this year.
