Sussex Transport was proud to sponsor and attend the West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service Recognition and Achievement Awards Ceremony, held on 5 November at the historic Arundel Castle. The annual event celebrates exceptional individuals and teams from across the service who have demonstrated dedication, bravery, innovation, and long-standing commitment to keeping West Sussex safe.
The ceremony recognised fire service staff who have reached 20, 30 and 40 years of service, alongside a number of special awards highlighting remarkable contributions over the past year. Distinguished guests in attendance included Lady Emma Barnard, Lord Lieutenant of West Sussex, Dr Tim Fooks, High Sheriff of West Sussex, and Councillor Duncan Crow, West Sussex County Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Support, Fire and Rescue.
Celebrating Outstanding Individuals and Teams
Among this year’s award recipients:
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Suzanne Goff received the Career and Lifetime Achievement Award for 25 years of service. Suzanne was recognised for her leadership, her advocacy for female health, and her focus on mental health and wellbeing. Her contribution to operational learning—particularly following the Angel Inn Hotel fire—has helped shape best practice across the sector.
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Lyndon Osgood received the Exceptional Service Award. As a Service Van Engineer, Lyndon’s innovative approach has saved the service tens of thousands of pounds in equipment upgrades and replacements. His work ethic and initiative were praised as exemplary.
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The Targeted Education Team received Team of the Year for their inclusive Fire Cadets programme, in particular their life-changing support for a neurodiverse young person with complex needs. Their commitment enabled the young person to fully engage with and complete the programme.
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Green Watch Chichester, led by Stephen Lintott, were presented with the Bravery Award for their actions at a tragic incident involving a submerged vehicle in Chichester Canal. Despite freezing conditions, the crew entered deep water to rescue the driver and performed CPR in an attempt to save her life. Their courage and swift response were commended.
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Andy Horner received the British Empire Medal for a distinguished career spanning five decades with West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service.
Recognition, Appreciation and Community Impact
Councillor Duncan Crow shared his appreciation for the recipients:
“This event never fails to draw out some exceptional stories demonstrating the very best in public service. I was delighted to see these individuals receiving the recognition they deserve for their commitment and dedication to keeping West Sussex safe.”
Chief Fire Officer Gary Ball added:
“Whether through bravery, innovation, or compassion, every medal recipient and award winner has made a lasting impact on our county and the communities we serve. I am extremely proud and grateful for their dedicated service.”
The full list of award recipients included long-service medals for 20, 30 and 40 years, commendations, community partnership awards, charity champions, and volunteers of the year.
Our Ongoing Support for West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service
At Sussex Transport, we are honoured to support an event that highlights the extraordinary professionalism and courage of those who serve our region. The dedication recognised at this ceremony reflects the values we admire and the community we are proud to be part of.
This sponsorship also aligns with our ongoing collaboration with emergency services, including recent LGV safety and awareness training sessions hosted at our Lancing headquarters. Supporting skills development, community initiatives, and frontline responders remains a meaningful part of our wider commitment to West Sussex.
We extend our sincere congratulations to all award recipients and thank every member of the West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service for their exceptional service.
