A formal passing out parade was held at the East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service Training Centre on Friday 13th March 2009.

The ceremony marked the successful completion of an intensive, 16-week training programme that encompassed all aspects of the modern firefighter's role.

The course was the first to be attended by trainee firefighters from both East and West Sussex Fire & Rescue Services and the delivery of the training was designed to be progressively intensive and both physically and mentally demanding.

The course was a joint approach involving instructors from both East and West Sussex Fire & Rescue Services.

Shortly before the trainees demonstrated a range of skills they had gained during the training programme, East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service's Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Gary Walsh, welcomed the trainees' family and friends to the ceremony. He said:

"The role of a firefighter in today's society requires many traditional attributes including courage, empathy, observation, discipline, endurance and patience. Today's firefighter must continually develop these skills in order to meet the demands of society and the widening role of the firefighter and to show commitment to their own career progression."

The Assistant Chief Fire Officer continued: "I'm sure that each of the trainees will uphold the very high standard that is required of them and I wish them every success for the future in their respective Fire & Rescue Services!"

For 16 weeks, the trainee firefighters had been learning essential skills and passed rigorous assessments in preparation for the next phase of their development, which will continue at their individual community fire station postings.

As a result of the pass out, seven new firefighters will be posted throughout East Sussex and eight throughout West Sussex.