A North Yorkshire firefighter has received a Citizenship Award from Richmondshire District Council, for “Outstanding service to the community”.
Watch Manager Roger Iveson has been a part-time firefighter at Hawes Fire Station for 33 years and has held the position of Watch Manager for the past 18 years. During this time he has dedicated much of his time to North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service and contributed to the general safety of all who live and work in his local community.
Cllr Peacock presenting the award ‘Richmondshire Citizen of the year 2011’ to Roger with his wife Sue
Roger runs his own small business in Hawes, JR Iveson Electricals, at which he employs a very small number of local people – 2 of whom are also part-time firefighters at Hawes Station. Every time an emergency call is received Roger and his 2 employees put the needs of the community before business by attending the fire station and dealing with the emergency, no matter what tasks they are carrying out.
Station Manager Dave Pitt says: “During his career with North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service WM Iveson has displayed outstanding leadership qualities and attributes. Roger and his team are highly productive and Hawes personnel regularly meet and exceed the needs of local communities by making provision for extra activities outside of normal drill nights.”
Station Manager Pitt continues: “He is a great example to all; I’m so pleased Roger has been recognised by Richmondshire District Council as an outstanding citizen”.
Cllr John Blackie stated recently ‘How proud he was to be linked to Hawes Fire Station’ and further added, after attending a fire service meeting that he ‘never failed to be surprised by the professionalism and commitment of Roger and his team’.
Deputy Chief Fire Officer Chris Anderson said “Roger is highly regarded in the fire service, carrying out his role in a professional, enthusiastic and selfless manner that is inspiring to everyone he knows. His leadership has achieved considerable change at Hawes Station that has benefitted the local community. His drive and ambition are contagious and he continues to motivate and focus his staff at Hawes Station to achieve excellent results.”
