A VEHICLE technician who is always willing to go that extra mile has been named fire service's employee of the year

Selfless Paul Offord completes tasks to the highest standards at Cheshire Fire and Rescue HQ in Winsford.

His work has now been recognised with a Success, Talent, Achievement and Recognition (Star) Award, which recognises and honours those who have gone above and beyond the call of duty for the service.

A true team player, Paul consistently helps others in their tasks and is keen to develop working practices for the benefit of all.

His latest project involved the transfer of communications systems from outgoing vehicles into new water incident vehicles.

Having never completed this work previously, Paul worked methodically and systematically - saving the service the £6,000 which was quoted for external contractors to complete the task.

This year marked the 10th anniversary of the Star awards and more than 100 people attended the ceremony on Thursday at the Village Hotel in Warrington.

Paul said: “It’s an honour to have won this award. It’s easy doing favours for nice people and most of the people who work at Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service are nice people so it’s a pleasure to do my job.

“We are described as a family and it very much feels like that. I didn’t expect this award and it is a real honour to have been presented with it.”

Chief fire officer and chief executive Mark Cashin said: “It gives me immense pride to see the dedication and hard work our staff show each and every day to help keep the public of Cheshire safe.

“Congratulations to the winners, nominees and everyone who has been involved with this year’s Star awards, they are a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the inspirational work which goes on across the service.

“This year was an extra special event as it is the 10th time we have held the awards and after hearing the winners’ stories I feel extremely humbled and proud to be the chief fire officer and to represent an organisation which provides an exceptional level of service to the communities we serve.”

Cllr Bob Rudd, chairman of Cheshire Fire Authority, said: “As a locally elected representative I regularly get to see the positive impact staff from all across the organisation have on our communities and I am justifiably proud of the service and our staff.

“The success of those who have been recognised in the tenth annual Star awards not only reflects on the individuals and teams but also their families and friends who support them at home.

“I would like to personally congratulate all those staff who have been presented with an award as well as all those who were nominated. They are a true credit to Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service.”

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