A DORSET firm has been recognised by the fire service for its support to on-call firefighters.

Sunseeker International Ltd, based in Poole, has received an award from Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service for its support to crew at Hamworthy, Poole and Portland fire stations.

The luxury yacht company allows six members of staff to respond to emergencies from their workplace.

At their Dorset sites, Sunseeker has altered the factory layout and workstations to help the on-call firefighters, as well as allocating dedicated parking bays close to the site entrance.

The presentation was made at the service’s annual awards ceremony on May 18.

Greg Berrisford and Oliver Smart from Sunseeker received the award from Chief Fire Officer Ben Ansell and sponsors Andy Kerr and Fiona Clayton, from SSS Public Safety.

Steve Timms, production director at Sunseeker International, said: “Sunseeker is honoured to have been recognised in the Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service Awards 2023.

“With a 2,000-strong workforce living in Dorset, we take our commitment to the local community very seriously. We are proud to support such a worthwhile local service and, in particular, honour the Sunseeker employees who volunteer their time to serve the local community.”

Andy Kerr said: “SSS Public Safety is honoured to continue our association with these awards, to pay tribute to firefighters and staff across the Service, and to thank local employers for allowing their staff to be released from duties to attend fire calls.”

Group manager Stuart Gillion, who manages the fire stations in the BCP area, said: “Sunseeker’s support for our on-call firefighters has included allowing time for training and providing flexibility in working hours.

“In return, our firefighters use their knowledge and expertise in areas such as fire marshal duties, first aid and guidance with risk assessments.

“I’m delighted that Sunseeker are being recognised for their outstanding contribution to our service.”

For more information about being an on-call firefighter with Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, visit www.dwfire.org.uk/on-call-firefighters.