A FIRE station commander from Welwyn has been recognised as one of the service’s longest-serving employees.

Paul Macdonald, who looks after the village’s retained crew, was handed his long service medal at an award ceremony at County Hall.

Chief fire officer Roy Wilsher dished out honours to a total of 10 firefighters and officers, who have notched up more than 200 years’ service between them.

The medals, which are issued by royal warrant, are awarded to staff who have completed 20 or more years of service, and have demonstrated ‘meritorious service’.

Mr Wilsher said: “We have some extremely dedicated and long-serving members of staff and these awards provide an opportunity to recognise the hard work they have put in over the years.

“It was an honour to present them with their medals.

County councillor Keith Emsall, who attended the ceremony said: “These members of staff should be proud of their achievement.

“They have dedicated their careers to serving and protecting the people of Hertfordshire and I am pleased their accomplishments have been recognised.”