Local Firefighter Mark Brittain from Grayshott Fire & Rescue was invited to a reception at Downing street recently.

Mark was a nominated for The Spirit of Fire Awards which is the UK Fire Services premier event recognising bravery and dedication in the Fire Services community.

The Prime Minister personally addressed all the nominees and then met with them at a reception in the state rooms of Downing Street.

The nominees went on to the gala awards which were supported by many celebrities who were keen to support the bravery and commitment of the UK Fire Service.

Mark was nominated for his voluntary work for the Fire Fighters Charity which provides welfare and therapeutic care to Firefighters all over the UK. The charity is about to extend the breadth of its support by offering support for burns victims.

Mark has been heavily involved with Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service's annual Ladies Driving Challenge which over the last 3 years has raised in excess of £67,000 for charity. Contestants test their driving skills on a wide range of challenging vehicles - including articulated Lorries, vintage military vehicles, hovercraft, recovery vehicles, buses, cranes, forklift trucks and fire engines.

This years challenge takes place in October at the Farnborough Air Show site and places are going fast so if any females would like to test their driving skills then visit www.ladiesdrivingchallenge.co.uk. to register on line.