By Isle of Wight Observer
Sandown firefighter and watch manager, Keith Cook, has been presented with a special framed certificate, signed by the town’s mayors in post at the beginning of his service and now.
The certificate, signed by Heather Humby, mayor in 1984, and current mayor, Cllr Alex Lightfoot, recognised Keith’s years of dedicated service to the residents of Sandown and the Isle of Wight at a special event attended by former mayors and the Island’s High Sheriff, Dawn Haig-Thomas.
Mrs Haig-Thomas said: “The Island is fortunate enough to have on-call, also known as retained, fire-fighters to call upon in emergencies, and Keith exemplifies putting service before self. We are also grateful for the support that his family has given him over his years of service.”
Cllr Lightfoot added: “It was good to see former mayors at the presentation, as well as former firefighter, Bill Wyke, who still contributes so much to the community.”
Former Sandown mayors also presented Keith with a bottle of champagne, and arranged a film-showing of two events Keith had been involved in – the visit of Princess Diana to the Sandown Station, and a rescue at Yaverland, when two cars were stranded on the beach trying to rescue a grounded jet-ski.
Image: Sandown mayors current and past with Keith Cook and Bill Wyke (3rd & 4th from left)and Dawn Haig-Thomas (2nd from right)