MID and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) has celebrated the graduation of its latest intake of Wholetime Firefighters following a Passing Out Parade held on Thursday (Dec 16) at the Service’s Earlswood Training Centre.

Family members, friends and colleagues gathered to mark the achievements of eleven recruits — collectively known as Squad 03/25 — who are transitioning from On-Call roles to begin full-time careers serving communities across Mid and West Wales.

The ceremony was opened by Chief Fire Officer Craig Flannery and marked the successful completion of an intensive eleven-week training programme designed to prepare recruits for the physical, technical and mental demands of modern firefighting.

Head of Training Delivery, Group Manager Stuart Bate, praised the squad’s commitment and resilience.

He said: “From the first day of training, Squad 03/25 have exhibited courage, discipline and determination to uphold the noblest traditions of the Fire Service.

“Throughout their journey, they have faced demanding challenges both physically and mentally, demonstrating exceptional resilience while embracing the values of teamwork, integrity and selflessness that define our profession.

“As we celebrate their achievements, we should also recognise the sacrifices they have made and the dedication they have shown. They have chosen a path that requires courage, compassion and a deep sense of duty to others, and I feel enormous pride in what they have accomplished over the past eleven weeks.”

The ceremony included a formal inspection of the recruits by Chief Fire Officer Craig Flannery, Fire Authority Member Lyndon Jones, and Group Manager Stuart Bate. Drill yard displays were also held, showcasing the emergency response skills developed during training, followed by the presentation of certificates and awards.

Chief Fire Officer Craig Flannery said the occasion marked a significant milestone in the recruits’ professional lives.

He said: “We were proud to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Squad 03/25, who have completed eleven weeks of rigorous training and reached a key point in their careers as Wholetime Firefighters.

“As an integral part of Wales’s emergency response infrastructure, MAWWFRS exemplifies professionalism, readiness and an unwavering commitment to public safety. You are now an essential part of that work.

“My sincere thanks go to the Training Delivery Department, whose expertise and dedication ensure that our recruits receive first-class training. Without their tireless efforts, none of this would be possible.”

Each graduate will now take up a Wholetime Firefighter role at their designated fire station. MAWWFRS wished them all long, safe and successful careers in the Service.

Awards and presentations

Wholetime Firefighter Training Course Certificate

All recruits received a framed certificate, presented by Chief Fire Officer Craig Flannery, in recognition of successfully completing the eleven-week Wholetime Firefighter Training Course.

Physical Fitness Achievement Award and 300 Club
Selected by the Service’s Fitness Team, the Physical Fitness Achievement Award recognises the recruit who has consistently pushed themselves to their limits throughout training.

From Squad 03/25, the award was presented to Dale Wells.
The 300 Club Award was presented to Molly Jones, Dale Wells, Matthew Evans, Rylee Roberts and Owain Thomas.

The Recruits’ Recruit Award
Chosen by fellow recruits, this award recognises the individual who has shown outstanding effort, commitment and support for others during the course.

The award was presented to Matthew Evans by Fire Authority Member Lyndon Jones.

Highest-Achieving Recruit Award (The Silver Axe)
Awarded to the recruit demonstrating the highest overall performance across all aspects of training — including practical skills, written work, examinations, leadership and teamwork — the Silver Axe was presented to Owain Thomas by Chief Fire Officer Craig Flannery.