DORSET firefighters were congratulated for their long service and good conduct at a prestigious awards ceremony.

Thirteen men serving at fire stations across the county were presented with medals from the High Sheriff of Dorset, James Boughey, at the Hardy Hall in Dorchester.

Three other firefighters, who had passed their statutory promotion exams, also received certificates.

The Fire Brigade Long Service and Good Conduct Medal is ordained by Royal Warrant, awarded to recipients after 20 years' full or part-time service and in recognition of their good character and conduct.

Councillor David Fox, chairman of Dorset Fire Authority, gave a welcome speech and presented the promotion certificates. Martin Chapman, chief fire officer of the Dorset Fire and Rescue Service, delivered the closing address.

The Fire Brigade Long Service and Good Conduct Medals were awarded to: Philip Allen, station officer at fire safety delivery (East); John Baker, leading firefighter, Weymouth; Romney Burden, firefighter, Sherborne; Martin Corben, station officer, Sturminster Newton; Vernon Gale, firefighter, Wareham; Robert Hark, divisional officer, fire safety strategy; Martin Hill, leading firefighter, Sherborne; David Jones, station officer, Springbourne; Patrick Merritt, leading firefighter, Bere Regis; Colin Northover, leading firefighter, Bridport; Royston Pinder, sub officer, Hamworthy; Derrick Puplett, leading firefighter, Sherborne, and Patrick Wynn, firefighter, Christchurch.

Darren Lowe and Bradley Stevens both gained their statutory promotion examination certificates to qualify for promotion to leading firefighters. Paul Webber was promoted to the level of sub-officer.