FIREFIGHTERS last night received long service and good conduct medals in recognition of 20 years service.

The recipients from Cleveland Fire Brigade were Sub Officer Paul Cole, Firefighter Raymond Dowson, Firefighter William Dunbar, Retained Firefighter Neil Garbutt (now retired), Station Officer Alan Hatfield, Sub Officer Ian Hendry, Station Officer Peter May, Firefighter Brian Ryder, Firefighter Derek Smith, Station Officer Gerard Suggitt, Assistant Divisional Officer Andrew Witham and Leading Firefighter Philip Wright.

Brigade chief director Ian Hayton said: "The medals were instituted by Royal Warrant in 1954 to honour firefighters who have rendered long and meritorious service."

It is amongst the most prized awards a firefighter can achieve