SUFFOLK County Council's safety chiefs are praising the commitment, bravery, stamina, and professionalism in the community. The annual awards ceremony, which will take place at Suffolk County Council's headquarters tomorrow will showcase the actions and long service of those who work in the Fire and Rescue Service and trading standards in particular.

SUFFOLK County Council's safety chiefs are praising the commitment, bravery, stamina, and professionalism in the community.

The annual awards ceremony, which will take place at Suffolk County Council's headquarters tomorrow will showcase the actions and long service of those who work in the Fire and Rescue Service and trading standards in particular.

This year sees the first presentation of awards from the Royal Humane Society which are being presented by the RHS Chairman. Her Majesty's representative in Suffolk, the Lord Lieutenant, will be the guest of honour and will be presenting the Queens Long Service and Good Conduct awards.

Announcing the awards, Suffolk County Council's portfolio holder for public protection, Joanna Spicer said:

"This year has seen an unprecedented amount of work for our public protectors here in Suffolk. The past two weeks alone has seen their work showcased on the national stage in terms of flooding and bird flu. These people do their job through a sense of public duty, a commitment to serving their community and to saving lives. I am proud that I can represent them and humbled by the stories of their bravery and endeavour. Moreover, each day there are acts of service that go unreported, not to mention the unsung support from across the community, from voluntary groups to individuals"

She continued:

"This has been a year of high profile success stories here in Suffolk but reviewing the year is tinged with sadness as we remember the lives lost in the county. The recent tragic loss of four fire fighters in Warwickshire reminds us to take time out to remember the dangers and risks that staff face each time they do their job. "

Among the awards will be:

Royal Humane Society Vellum Award and Chief Fire Officer's commendations

Pc Nicholas Rush and Pc Robert Hinson were on routine patrol in Ipswich town centre in a marked police van early in February.

A man came running out of a nearby block of flats stating that there was a fire in one of the flats and his friend was trapped inside.

Without hesitation, Pc Rush and Pc Hinson entered the smoke-filled flat to rescue the man trapped inside.

They found the unconscious man and brought him to safety. The two men are recognised for their selfless actions which were above and beyond the call of duty.

Chief Fire Officer's Certificates of Merit

Firefighter Nigel Seaman was carrying out community safety work at Gainsborough Sports Centre in Ipswich with White Watch from Princes Street. They were then informed that someone had collapsed on the football field and needed help.

Mr Seaman rushed to the casualty and assumed command of the situation. After administering first aid, he ensured that an ambulance was on its way and reassured the casualty until its arrival.

Mr Seaman assumed a calm and professional attitude throughout the incident and his actions are recognised.