A CHIEF Fire officer has been recognised for his dedication to a life-saving service in the latest New Year Honours list.

Chris Davies, Chief Fire Officer of Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service was awarded the Queen’s Fire Service Medal on December 30.

He joined Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service in 2008 as Corporate Head of Community Risk Reduction before being promoted to the role of Assistant Chief Fire Officer in 2011.

Chris joined South Glamorgan Fire Service in 1984 and served at Cardiff, Ely, Roath and Whitchurch stations both as a firefighter and officer.

During his service at South Wales Fire and Rescue Service he rose to the rank of Head of Community Safety and, on two separate occasions, seconded to the Fire Service College and the Government’s New Dimension project.

In 2014, Chris was appointed Chief Fire Officer for Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service.

Each year the New Year Honours recognises and rewards good works by citizens of the public and this year, dedication to a life-saving service has seen recognition for Mr Davies.

The father of two said: “I am absolutely delighted, honoured and proud to have received this award.

“I have served 32 years in the Fire and Rescue Service and enjoyed every minute of my time, to be recognised in this way is truly humbling and I would like to thank everyone who has worked with me during my career.”

The Honours system recognises people who have made achievements in public life and committed themselves to serving and helping the United Kingdom.South West Wales features heavily in the New Year's Honours List, with figures from all areas of the community being recognised for outstanding contributions.