Fire Fighter of the Year 2010

A fireman from the West Midlands has been named Fire Fighter of the Year 2010.

Simon Hawkins from Bromsgrove is the first fire fighter in Europe to return to full duties with a prosthetic limb.

In July 2004 he was involved in a head on car crash and had to have his left leg amputated. Through sheer determination and passion for his job he overcame the odds and has returned to his role fighting fires and saving lives.

Simon has also been involved in the Dying to Drive events, sharing his experience to educate young people about the dangers of driving.

He was presented his award in London by comedy legends Bruce Forsyth and Barry Cryer.

A special recognition award was also given to representatives from the eight fire and rescue services, including the West Midlands, who formed part of the UK-International  Search & Rescue Team who travelled to Haiti in January.

They performed a particularly lengthy and difficult operation, under extreme pressure, high temperatures and tragic circumstances.