The new recruits put on an impressive display for loved ones and dignitaries
Abseiling down towers, rescuing casualties and delivering emergency first-aid – it’s all in a day’s work for these budding firefighters.
Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service’s latest recruits put on an impressive display for loved ones and dignitaries during their passing out parade at the service’s headquarters in Tolvaddon on Friday, August 08.
After being selected from 700 applicants and completing an intensive 12-week training programme, the firefighters are ready to serve communities across Cornwall.
The 12 new recruits, aged between 20 and 49, are the first external applicants to join the service since 2017.
Kyla Hamilton, who spent nine years serving in the Army before applying to become a firefighter, was awarded the prestigious silver axe, which is given to the top recruit.
The 32-year-old said: “I was proud just to be up there and complete the 12 weeks.
"To win the silver axe award on top of that, it just means so much. It’s a proud moment for all of us.”
At 20 years old Amy Richards is the youngest recruit. Amy, who previously worked for His Majesty’s Prison Service in Exeter, said the training was tough but worth the effort.
Excited to start her new role at Bodmin Fire Station, she added: “It can’t believe I got to the end or even got on the course in the first place. It’s been such a good course.”
Pete Waddington worked as a secondary school science teacher before applying for the job.
He said: “To have a career where you devote your time at work to helping people and to leaving situations in a better position than you find them is really important and is something I can be proud of.”
Family members, a pet dog and special guests including Cornwall Councillors, the Lord-Lieutenant of Cornwall, Colonel Sir Edward Bolitho, and the High Sheriff of Cornwall, Geraint Richards, watched as the crews showcased their skills during two drills.
Among the guests was Pete Waddington’s proud father-in-law, Stuart, who said it was a special day for them all.
“They worked really hard to be selected in the first place and the training they’ve been put through has been the hardest thing I think many of them had to face,” he added.
“We share in the pride of their success today.”
The 12 new recruits are ready serve communities across Cornwall
Welcoming the firefighters to the service, Kathryn Billing, Chief Fire Officer at Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service, said they had “the best job in the world, in the best place in the world".
She added: “I’m unashamedly emotional today because it’s an incredible achievement. I’m so proud of each and every one of them and also our officers and staff that have supported their journey, all the way through from recruitment, selection and training to get them to where they are today.”
Councillor Thalia Marrington, Cabinet member with responsibility for Community Safety and Public Health at Cornwall Council, said it was privilege to attend the event.
“The drills were phenomenal,” she added.
“Watching how they all respond as a team and knowing what everybody’s doing was incredible.
“You can just see the care that every single person puts in. I felt really privileged to watch it and be a part of it.”
Press release issued on August 13, 2025