Over the Christmas period, it is business as usual for us here at Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service. However, for our newest batch of firefighters, this year will be their first year on duty.

Chantelle Haywood started her firefighter training in June this year, and is now an on-call firefighter at Collingham Fire station. This year she is on duty from Christmas Eve until Boxing Day.

Chantelle said: “Being a firefighter is all about giving back to the community and helping people, so I am looking forward to being on duty over Christmas.

“I am nervous as I am expecting it to be busier than usual due to the demand from the pandemic, but I joined the fire service as I wanted to do something that would push me out of my comfort zone so I am ready for the shouts if they come in.”

Charlotte Upcott became a wholetime firefighter on 30 September 2020 and is currently at Arnold Fire Station.

Charlotte and her watch will be on duty for four days between Christmas and New Year.

Charlotte said: “I love that people come together over the festive period. Being a firefighter on duty means we get to see the very best people with their generous efforts and donations, including present drop offs for children that might not get anything else.

“I wanted to become a firefighter for a few reasons. I was very fortunate to have been an elite athlete for 13 years where I had an entire support team around me, so it was key that in my new career I was able to help people and make a positive difference.

“I wanted to feel proud of the work I do and have a strong purpose in life, and working at Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service has really given me that.”