Tenby Firefighter Jeremy Lees Receives High Sheriff Award, Wales 2026

Key Points

• Tenby Fire Station Watch Manager Jeremy Lees, nicknamed Jez, has been honored with the special award of “Outstanding Service to the Community” presented by the High Sheriff of Dyfed.
• Jeremy Lees has joined the firefighting service at the Tenby Fire Station in 1992, where he is now serving for 34 years.
• Over time, he has climbed the ranks and has become the Watch Manager at the very same fire station.
• The news came out as Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service celebrates 30 years since it was founded in 1996.
• Community services undertaken by Jeremy Lees include fundraising activities, participation in the Tenby Carnival, car washing and station open days.
• The Chief Fire Officer, Craig Flannery, commended the dedication and professionalism of Jeremy Lees.
• This news item was made public by Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service on October 20, 2026, and written by Rachel Kestin.

Wales (Wales Times) October 20, 2026 — A long-serving Tenby firefighter has received formal recognition for more than three decades of public service after being awarded by the High Sheriff of Dyfed for outstanding community service.

As reported by Rachel Kestin of Mid and West uk/fire/">Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Watch Manager Jeremy Lees—known locally as Jez—received the award in recognition of his “long-standing commitment and invaluable contribution to the Fire Service across Pembrokeshire”.

The Service said the honour acknowledged his “Outstanding Service to the Community”. It added that Jeremy has made a lasting impact on colleagues and the wider Tenby community through his leadership, professionalism and commitment to public service.

Who Is Jeremy Lees?

Jeremy Lees began his firefighting career at Tenby Fire Station in 1992, several years before Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service was formed in 1996.

According to the Service, his career has developed alongside the organisation, moving from local brigade roots to a modern service focused on prevention, protection and emergency response.

Over more than three decades, Jeremy progressed through the ranks and now serves as Watch Manager at Tenby Fire Station—the same station where his career began.

The Service described his 34 years of service as an “incredible” milestone, saying he has earned significant respect for his work within the fire service and across the Tenby community.

What Did the High Sheriff Award Recognise?

The award recognised Jeremy’s sustained contribution to community safety and public service in Pembrokeshire.

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service said the presentation was made by the High Sheriff of Dyfed. The organisation did not provide further details about the date or venue of the presentation in its published announcement.

The Service framed the recognition as part of its 30th-anniversary celebrations, stating that people such as Jeremy have “shaped the Service’s past, strengthen its present, and inspire its future”.

What Has Jeremy Lees Contributed to Tenby?

Jeremy’s community involvement has extended beyond operational firefighting duties.

Chief Fire Officer Craig Flannery highlighted his participation in fundraising events, Tenby Carnival attendance, car washes and open days.

As reported by Rachel Kestin of Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Craig Flannery said:

“I have known Jeremy for 20 years and am absolutely thrilled that he has been recognised in this way by the High Sheriff for his outstanding service to the community.”

He added: “Jeremy’s dedication and enthusiasm, whether through fund raising events, Tenby Carnival attendance, car washes or open days, is the epitome of a modern Fire Service staff member and I wish him well in all future endeavours.”

How Does the Award Fit the Service’s 30th Anniversary?

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service is marking 30 years since its formation in 1996.

The organisation said Jeremy’s achievement serves as a reminder that “the strength of the Service lies in its people”.

The Service employs more than 1,350 staff and provides emergency response, prevention and protection programmes across almost 12,000 square kilometres—nearly two-thirds of Wales.

Its published statement said it works closely with communities and partners to make Mid and West Wales safer for people who live, work in and visit the area.

What Has the Fire Service Said About the Award?

The Service congratulated Jeremy directly in its announcement, saying:

“Well done, Jeremy – this is an achievement to be extremely proud of, we’re incredibly grateful for your dedication, commitment and service.”

It also described the award as “fantastic news from Tenby Fire Station”.

The announcement did not state whether further ceremonies, additional awards or wider anniversary events are planned.

Background of the Development

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service was formed in 1996 and is responsible for public safety information, prevention and protection programmes, fire-safety enforcement and emergency response cover across Mid and West Wales.

Tenby Fire Station is part of that service area in Pembrokeshire. Jeremy Lees joined the station in 1992, before the current Service was established, and has remained there throughout his 34-year career.

The High Sheriff is a ceremonial county office with a longstanding role in recognising individuals and organisations for service to the local community. In this case, the High Sheriff of Dyfed presented the award to Jeremy for his contribution to community safety and fire-service work.

Prediction: What Could This Mean for Tenby’s Fire Service Community?

For Tenby residents, the award may reinforce confidence in the local fire station’s long-standing connection to the community. Jeremy’s recognition highlights the role of experienced personnel in maintaining local knowledge, public engagement and continuity of service.

For current and prospective firefighters in Pembrokeshire, the announcement could draw attention to long-term career pathways within Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service. Jeremy’s progression from firefighter in 1992 to Watch Manager demonstrates internal advancement within the organisation.

For community groups, schools and local event organisers, the recognition may encourage continued collaboration with Tenby Fire Station. The Service’s references to carnivals, open days, car washes and fundraising indicate that public engagement remains an important part of its local presence.