Release date: 14 November 2025
Seven new on-call firefighters have joined West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service after successfully completing their initial two-week training course.
On-call firefighters often have full-time employment elsewhere but respond to emergency calls within their local area.
The new recruits live or work nearby to one of the service’s fire stations and will respond to emergencies either from their place of work or from home.
West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service’s Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Andy Piller, presented the recruits with their certificates at Shoreham Fire Station on Friday (14 November) in front of their proud families.
Speaking after the event, he said: “I was delighted to attend the pass out parade and officially welcome our new on-call firefighters into the service.
“The course is challenging, but they have all demonstrated their commitment and determination over the last two weeks and they are now ready to join their crews and respond to emergencies.
“I look forward to watching them continue to develop their skills throughout their careers in the fire and rescue service."
Councillor Duncan Crow, Cabinet Member for Community Support, Fire and Rescue, said: “I would like to congratulate our new on-call firefighters. They have worked extremely hard and should be very proud of themselves. I know they will do an excellent job in serving their communities and I wish them all the best in their careers with the fire and rescue service.”
The new firefighters, and where they will be based, are:
- Neil Mackay, Chichester
- Lee Pottinger, Midhurst
- Lauren Cooper, Chichester
- Charlie Collins, East Preston
- Alex Mould, East Wittering
- Benjamin Kettle, Chichester
- Lewis Bridle, Partridge Green
People can find out more about becoming an on-call firefighter.
