West Sussex Firefighter Andy Horner Bags British Empire Medal After 52 Years’ Service
Longest-Serving Firefighter Honoured in King’s Birthday List
Crew Manager Andy Horner, the longest-serving firefighter in West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service history, has scooped the prestigious British Empire Medal (BEM) in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours List.
Andy’s incredible career stretches over five decades, winning acclaim for his steadfast dedication to fire safety and community service across the county.
“I am absolutely delighted to receive this prestigious award,” said Andy. “It has been an honour to serve within West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service for the last 52 years and it is a job that I have thoroughly enjoyed doing.”
A Lifetime Fighting Fires and Saving Lives
Andy’s journey began on 1 March 1973 at Selsey Fire Station as a retained firefighter. He then went full-time, serving at Worthing, Horley, and Chichester stations, including a spell training new recruits.
Even after retiring as a Group Manager in 2013, Andy returned to Selsey as a retained Crew Manager, proving his passion was far from extinguished.
He has battled some of the county’s biggest emergencies, including:
- Uppark House fire (1989)
- Chichester floods (1994)
- Selsey Academy fire (2016)
Andy credits his success to the enduring support of his wife Bernice, children Nicholas, Peter, and Bethan, plus his loyal colleagues.
Fire Chiefs and Council Praise Legendary Service
Chief Fire Officer Sabrina Cohen-Hatton hailed Andy as an inspiration:
“Andy is our longest serving firefighter in West Sussex and I am delighted that his hard work, commitment, and selflessness over 52 years has been recognised with this award.”
Cllr Duncan Crow, Cabinet Member for Community Support, Fire and Rescue, echoed the praise:
“We are incredibly grateful to Andy for the fantastic work he has done to keep West Sussex safe during his long and dutiful career.”
The British Empire Medal applauds hands-on service that truly makes a local difference – and Andy Horner’s glowing career fits the bill perfectly.
