One of Maldon's firefighter heroes has received a Chief Fire Officer's award for exceptional work to help save a life in a traumatic incident.

Lyndsey Gymer, who works as a full-time firefighter at Basildon and still finds time to be an on-call firefighter for her home town of Maldon, received the award alongside three colleagues from Green Watch at Basildon Fire Station and one other officer from Harlow.

They have been awarded Chief Fire Officer Commendations for their work at the incident, which took place earlier this year and saw the crew quickly assess a traumatic situation and use their skills and knowledge to work as a team in difficult circumstances.

Essex Chief Fire Officer Jo Turton and Director of Operations Moira Bruin surprised the watch with a visit and to tell them they were receiving an award.

Jo then handed certificates to Watch Manager Howard Midwood, Crew Manager Jeremy Castle, Firefighter Lyndsey Gymer and Firefighter Finbar Tubby.

Deputy Chief Fire Officer Rick Hylton presented Firefighter Cath Smith, who was on an out-duty from Harlow, with her certificate.

Watch Manager Howard Midwood said: "You never know what you are going to be faced with, but we train so that we are fully proficient and ready for just about anything.

"Once we had seen what was taking place, everyone was able to put their training into practice and make a difference. It's a credit to the team for making it happen and getting a response from the casualty.

"The Chief Fire Officer Commendations are great recognition for the team and their dedication to be the best they can possibly be and make a difference in the community they serve."

Jo Turton, Chief Fire Officer / Chief Executive, said:

"It was humbling to hear about the decisive action our colleagues took and the incredible teamwork they showed with every one of them playing a role in trying to save the casualty's life.

"They truly are a credit to our Service."

Readers of Maldon Nub News may know it's not the first time that Lyndsey has been shown as the local hero that she is.

Back in the first lockdown she helped Maldon eco shop Silo deliver essentials to those most in need in the town and earlier this year she spoke out about her on-call role as part of a fire service recruitment campaign.

You can read those stories about Lyndsey here and here.