Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service (MFRS) has welcomed its latest firefighters to the organisation at the Pass Out celebration of course 01/23.

The 18 apprentice firefighters celebrated their successes in the ceremony at the MFRS Training and Development Academy (TDA) on Friday 28 April, a culmination of 16 weeks of learning, development and progression.

Across the four months, the firefighter recruit course included training on breathing apparatus, pumps and ladders, compartment fire behaviour, first response emergency care, road traffic collisions, compressed air foam systems, methods of entry, water rescue, working at height and hazardous material, as well as insights into National Resilience and Operational Assurance.

Deputy Lieutenant Mr David Steer KC DL, MFRS Chief Fire Officer Phil Garrigan, MFRS senior officers and family and friends of the recruits attended the Pass Out celebration, which included a drill display demonstration, presentations by the recruit firefighters, and presentation of certificates. 

CFO Garrigan said: “I’m delighted that our recruits have successfully completed the most demanding training course in the UK fire and rescue service to become operational firefighters here in Merseyside. They have shown tenacity, diligence and a real appetite to succeed – these are essential attributes of a firefighter. I’d like to take this opportunity to personally congratulate them for their hard work and effort.”

The recruits of course 01/23 range in age from 24-38 years old and come from a variety of different backgrounds, including a lacrosse player, pastry chef, Royal Marine and digital marketing specialist.

33-year-old Erin Denney was named Top Recruit for course 01/23. Erin was identified by her peers and instructors alike, having excelled technically, academically and more importantly, through the values and behaviours she exhibited.

The recruits will now be posted to community fire stations across Merseyside to continue their apprenticeship training as firefighters in development until they become fully competent firefighters.