Young Fire Fan Scores Big at Hampshire Fire Awards
Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service bagged a top accolade – from none other than their biggest fan, 11-year-old fundraiser Andrew Impey. The Southsea lad didn’t just nominate the service as the best public sector organisation; he also took home the Young Person of the Year award himself!
Autistic Boy’s Amazing Fire Service Mission
Andrew, who is autistic, has visited every Hampshire fire station and most departments, many multiple times. His warm welcome kickstarted an epic fundraising quest to visit every fire station in the UK. He’s halfway there, ticking off over 1,000 stations and counting.
Big Dreams Beyond Hampshire
Thanks to his efforts, Andrew has earned multiple award nominations and even snagged an invite to visit the world-famous Fire Department City of New York (FDNY). He’s also planning to tour fire stations across Europe.
“I think of Hampshire firefighters as my friends and I was pleased I was able to give them this award,” said Andrew. “I think they are really good role models.”
His mum, Kirstine, added, “When we took Andrew to visit the stations, the support he got was amazing.” Andrew hopes to join Hampshire’s fire service one day and continue his passion for firefighting and fundraising.
