A LONG-SERVING Bridgwater firefighter has received the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee medal for his 40 years of service.

Watch manager Bob Wilkins, who “has dedicated more than 40 years to the protection of our town” was awarded the medal at a presentation night held last week at Bridgwater Fire Station.

Bridgwater Mercury:
Chief Fire Officer Lee Howell presents Bob Wilkins with the Devon and Somerset 40 year medal. The event was attended by Mayor of Bridgwater Leigh Redman (pictured right)

Bridgwater Mercury:
Bon Wilkins with his family

Cllr Leigh Redman, Mayor of Bridgwater, said: "It was a privilege to be invited to attend the presentation evening of watch manager Bob Wilkins at Bridgwater Fire Station.

“Bob has dedicated more than 40 years to the protection of our town, he is an amazing example of community service, being an on-call Firefighter is not just a job, it is a way of life that impacts the whole family, so the Chief Fire Officer, when presenting the award, rightly shared the praise with friends and family.

"I thank Bob and his family for their service to our town.”

Bridgwater Mercury:
Guard of Honour for long-serving Bob Wilkins as he arrives with his family at the presentation evening

Bridgwater Mercury:
Long-serving Bob Wilkins receives his 40 years of service certificate and medal

Chief Fire Officer Lee Howell presents Bob Wilkins with the Devon and Somerset 40-year medal.

Lee said: “I am immensely proud of all my Firefighters and support staff who work tirelessly to keep the public safe.

“Bob Wilkins has responded to emergencies for over 40 years and in that time will have saved many lives but also seen tragedy.

"The commitment and dedication of our on-call colleagues, their family, and employers is to be commended and I am delighted to recognise Bob with the service 40-year medal.”

Bridgwater Mercury:

Bridgwater Mercury:
Bridgwater Firefighters together at the presentation evening for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee medals