Earlier today, Firefighter Tommy Richardson was presented with the Queen’s Fire Service Medal for Distinguished Service by HRH Prince William at Buckingham Palace.
Tommy is a member of the Byker-based Swiftwater Rescue Team who campaigns passionately to reduce drowning incidents.
Reducing water-Related deaths
When Tommy was named in the 2019 New Year Honors list, Chief Fire Officer Chris Lowther commented: “Tommy’s passion and commitment to ensure water safety is high on everyone’s agenda has left no one untouched. From our water safety demonstrations to our work with partners, businesses and like-minded charities he has led the way in trying to reduce water-related deaths.
“Both as a firefighter and an educator, Tommy has been tireless in his water safety work and it is a privilege to have him as one of my firefighters. He has every attribute you would want in a firefighter; we and the communities of Tyne and Wear are very proud to have him as one of our own.”
From everyone at TWFRS, congratulations to Tommy on this well-deserved honor!