Hackney firefighter awarded 20 years’ service medal

Hackney firefighter Leslie Bowman receives his award in recognition of his 20 years' service

A local fire officer has been presented with the London Fire Brigade Long Service award in recognition of more than 20 years’ service to Londoners.  Leslie Bowman, currently a station manager at Kingsland Fire Station, joined the Brigade just over 20 years ago as a firefighter at Dagenham Fire Station.

“When I found out that I was to be based in Dagenham I was a bit anxious, as it was a completely different area to my home streets.  Plus, I was also one of the few black firefighters working at the Brigade at that time. But I had a great time!”

In his 20 years, Les has worked in a number of other fire stations across London, including Whitechapel, Barking and Kingsland. He also spent five years in London Fire Brigade’s headquarters, promoting equality and diversity in the Brigade.

“I always wanted to do something more community focused and worthwhile for local people, so when the opportunity came I decided to join the London Fire Brigade,” Les recalls.

Apart from fighting fires, Les sees the Fire Brigade as a community service. “Compared to 20 years ago, we are now much more community-focused. We work closely with local people to improve fire safety at home, work and school, and promote firefighter career opportunities within all parts of London’s communities.”

Les has devoted time in recent years to work with young people in his community, which includes Hackney, Haringey and Waltham Forest. He has established a group of around 30 firefighters who, in their free time, help young people develop their employment skills through improving their communication presentation skills.

“I feel privileged to have been with the London Fire Brigade for more than 20 years,” Les says “and would encourage anyone to at least try a firefighting career to see for themselves how rewarding it is”.