Just a day after their on-call counterparts, Humberside Fire and Rescue Service welcomed its 20 newest wholetime firefighters into the fold.
Around 100 family and friends gathered in the marquee on the parade ground to watch their nearest and dearest carry out a rescue from height drill with numerous hoses attacking the 'fire' simultaneously. Santa was even rescued from the top of the training tower!
Teamwork, fitness and firefighting skills were to the fore as trainers, officers and guests looked on.
Chair of the Fire Authority Councillor John Briggs joined the senior management team to oversee the second wholetime passing out parade of a busy 2017.
The K9 Fire Investigation Dogs again treated the guests to a demonstration of their detection skills during the interval. Many of the grandparents seemed just as entertained as the large group of children who attended!
Chief Fire Officer Chris Blacksell, presiding over a new intake for the first time in his new role, was proud to see such a well drilled group:
"These recruits are welcomed into the fire family. They will be our front line and represent the future of the Service which I am proud to lead."
He went on to say how the role had changed in the 30 years since he started and outlined the importance of looking out for the vulnerable, dealing with medical emergencies and educating young people.
Some of those who passed out will be working over Christmas as they will be joining various watches across the Humberside service area in the coming few days.
The CFO thanked all those present for supporting the recruits over the last 14 weeks and for making personal sacrifices to enable them to achieve their ultimate ambition in becoming a firefighter.
The Instructors Award for outstanding passion and pride over the course was given to RFF Stephen Gardener. The Endeavour Award for persistent hard work over the 14 weeks went to RFF Ryan Purchon and the Silver Axe for the overall top performer was presented to RFF Ian Dilkes.