Unsung community champions, pioneering safety partnerships, and groundbreaking initiatives that have made a real difference to Hampshire - all these and more were celebrated at Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service's annual 'Celebrating Success' awards ceremony.

The glittering event, hosted at the Marriott Meon Valley Hotel and Country Club, was enjoyed by over 300 fire and rescue staff from across the county. To honour the past year's achievements, Chief Officer John Bonney of Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service was joined by the Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire Mrs Mary Fagan, the High Sheriff of Hampshire, Mrs Sarah Thorne, and the Deputy Mayor and Mayoress of Winchester Michael Read and Mrs Janet Read.

One of the internal category awards for charitable contribution was won by Grayshott Fire Station for 'the best team or individual support for the Fire Services National Benevolent Fund (FSNBF)'. Retained firefighters Mark Brittain and John Edser accepted this award on behalf of Grayshott Fire Station, having raised a staggering £17,000 this year - more than any other station in the county. The funds generated primarily came from Grayshott's involvement with the annual Ladies Driving Challenge, which is the largest single fundraising event of its kind for the FSNBF. Grayshott Fire Station also celebrated 100 years of service this year and marked this with a Centenary Open Day - an event which the station also used as a fundraising opportunity for the FSNBF.

Next years challenge will be taking place at the Farnborough Air Show site on the October the 12th 2008.

For more information contact the participant helpline on 01722 332211 or visit:-http://www.ladiesdrivingchallenge.co.uk to register online.