Northumberland fire chief presented with honour by the Prince of Wales at Buckingham Palace

Paul Hedley received the honour from HRH The Prince of Wales in a ceremony on February 14.

He has served in a wide range of roles during his career with Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service, which began in January 1987, and he has been the service’s chief fire officer for almost four years.

He has received the honour for his continuing commitment to improving the safety, welfare and security of Northumberland’s residents and visitors, and his leadership on a wide range of operational and community safety service improvements within the fire service throughout his varied career.

Paul has also been recognised for his national role as the strategic lead for wildfire for the National Fire Chiefs Council.

On receiving the award Paul said: “As a lifelong resident of Northumberland this is an incredibly proud moment, and one that is even more special as I’m able to share it with my family who have supported me throughout my career.

“I’m immensely grateful to all of the amazing people I have worked with over the years, because it is only through their guidance, support, enthusiasm and dedication that I’m lucky enough to be here receiving this award.

“It’s an honour to lead such a fantastic fire and rescue service, with staff who are making a difference to people’s lives every day. This award is testament to that and I dedicate it to them all.”