A TOP Kidderminster firefighter has received a prestigious award after demonstrating excellence throughout his training course.

Firefighter Richard Dyche, 29, of Kidderminster Fire Station was honoured with‘The Silver Axe’ by Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service for being Top Wholetime Recruit of the Year.

Richard excelled throughout his Trainee Firefighter Course, and scored highly in all areas of his initial training.

Chief Fire Officer Nathan Travis presented Richard with the 'The Silver Axe.'

Firefighter Dyche said: “I feel very privileged to receive the Silver Axe for the Service’s first whole time recruit course in nearly 10 years.

"I owe lots of thanks for the help and support from my family and to the fellow recruits I trained with.”

Nathan Travis said: “Without the exceptional talents and commitment of our staff, there wouldn’t be the high quality fire and rescue service we have in Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

“This award honours Richard’s demonstration of exemplary commitment to training and to his role in the Service.

"He is to be congratulated.”