Firefighters at Painshill Fire Station in Cobham were awarded a community shield this month, in recognition of a recent community event they held.

The mayor of Elmbridge, Councillor James Vickers, presented the station manager Steve Pointer with the shield at a ceremony on Friday, September 4, after the station hosted the Cobham open day in August.

More than 300 people attended the open day, where they watched fire safety demonstrations, participated in a simulated smoke experience and even got to sit behind the wheel of a fire engine.

Local businesses also donated prizes for the day, including a signed Chelsea shirt, and the event eventually raised £900, which will be split between the Fire Fighters Charity and the mayor’s charity, the Newlife Foundation, which supports disabled children.

Coun Vickers said: “I attended this event on the day and in my opinion it was a great success. It was a model example of a community coming together, where residents and public services could interact in an informal and engaging way, with lots educational and fun activities for children to enjoy and learn from.

“This event captured the essence of my chosen charity, Newlife, which looks to support families of disabled children by providing equipment, stimulating activities for mentally disabled children and respite for the whole family.

“It’s an honour to present this shield today and I’m very grateful to all the agencies concerned who put a huge effort into ensuring the open day was a success.”

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