Steve has returned now from Jubilee House and has seen improvements in his recovery during the two weeks he has been there. His left arm is extending more fully and he will have to have the support that he sometimes wears modified to fit the new shape of his arm around the elbow area. When we saw Steve yesterday he was in good spirits and was looking forward to the weekend and having a chilled out couple of days following his two week trip up north.

Steve, Pauline and their families attended the Little Holme Walk awards ceremony last night (24/09) held at Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Training Centre. The ceremony was held in conjunction with the presentation of Long Service and Good Conduct awards to personnel who had served in the Fire and rescue Service for 20 years.

Steve was looking forward to the night, being back again with the other firefighters off Green watch from Bolton Central Fire Station who had attended the incident at Little Holme Walk and other friends and colleagues from within the service. Also there was Mr Chisty who owned the property on Little Holme Walk and who was there on the night of that tragic incident.

The night went extremely well with medals and awards being presented to the recipients. Family and friends who had come along to watch their loved ones receiving their medals and awards all had a really nice time.

Steve received a Chief Fire Officers commendation for his work on the night of the incident which went above and beyond the call of duty. He received his award to a standing ovation by everyone. There were a few teary eyes from his family when we saw everyone standing up for Steve, and seeing Steve going up to collect his commendation with a little help from his good friend and fellow fire fighter Carl Haslem from Mr Dixon the Chief Fire Officer. Afterwards Steve said it was a very proud moment for him to receive his commendation from the Chief Fire Officer and he would remember that for a long time to come. He also said that it was great to be with his friends from Green Watch and seeing them all recognised for the efforts on the night. Steve has always maintained that he was part of a team and everyone should have the recognition they deserve.

After the official ceremony everyone gathered for refreshments and we were all able to speak to the recipients of medals and awards and give them our personal congratulations. Steve spoke to many people who said some very nice things to him, Pauline and the family. Thank you to everyone for their encouraging words of support.

Gary.