TEN new firefighters have been welcomed into Essex County Fire and Rescue Service during a passing out ceremony.

The new recruits will now be heading to Basildon, Brentwood, Grays, Harlow and Loughton fire stations.

The ceremony was held at the Service Training Centre in Witham and was attended by Deputy Chief Fire Officer Moira Bruin and Roger Hirst, who is the police, fire and crime commissioner for Essex.

Proud family, friends and colleagues looked on in the crowd and the ceremony was live streamed for those who couldn’t make it in person.

The Service’s new recruits were welcomed into the service during a passing out ceremony where they performed two drills to show off their training in dealing with a house fire as well as a road traffic collision.

They were then welcomed into the fire service by Deputy Chief Fire Officer Moira Bruin.

She said: “We are always proud of our new recruits, and today is no exception.

"Our passing out parade allows us to take the time to watch on, recognise and celebrate the magnificent achievements of our newest squad of firefighters, your loved ones, and our colleagues.

“Our recruits have reached an important milestone and I wish all our new firefighters every success in your career with our Service.

"We know you will help to keep Essex a safe place to live, work and travel.”

The firefighters have been put through their paces over the last 15 weeks as they learned the practical and technical skills needed to meet the demands of a modern day firefighter.

Firefighter Dewi Kaylene was presented with a special award, and was recognised for his determination and professionalism, and great teamwork during the course.