WESTBURY’S Person of the Year 2018 award has been won by Jim Shaw, who has served the town as an on-call firefighter for the last 30 years.
Hundreds of votes were received in the competition which was organised by White Horse News to find the person who has made a real contribution to the community in 2018.
Jim started his career at the age of 18, joining the fire service in 1988. He now serves the brigade as the watch manager and works hard to encourage people to join the fire service. He was nominated for his dedication to the service, giving over 120 hours a week.
Jim said. “I feel quite humbled to be honest! It’s nice to know that people appreciate the work I have done over the last 30 years. But really I couldn’t have done it without my wife and children.
“I was already in the fire service when I met my wife, we have been married for 25 years this year, but she has had to deal with a lot, cancelled plans, staying close to home, so it’s really thanks to them.
“But a huge thank you to everyone who voted for me, It’s really appreciated.”
The voters’ comments for Jim included, “Although all other nominations are worthy, I feel Jim’s voluntary commitment to Westbury over the years is commendable to say the least, the sacrifices that he has bestowed upon himself and his family life over the years in order to ensure Westbury has emergency cover is very noble. Jim literally eats sleeps and breathes Westbury.”
“Jim Shaw has given a lot to Westbury over a long period of time, is there for everyone when they need help most and expects nothing in return.”
“He has given up countless Christmases, birthdays and other celebrations to protect the people of Westbury all year round, as well as raising money for the Firefighters Charity to help fellow colleagues in need. I can’t think of a better winner for this award.”
Ian Drew, editor of White Horse News, presented the winner’s shield to Jim last week. Ian said, “Congratulations to Jim on winning our Person of the Year competition for 2018. Jim has given his time and dedication to the Westbury Fire Service, with the town showing their appreciation for his hard work and commitment over the last 30 years. He has gone beyond the call of duty to help ensure that the town remains safe in an emergency.
“All this year’s nominees were worthy of the award and deserve praise for their efforts and contributions to the town. They can all feel proud to have been involved and to know they have made such a big impact on local people’s lives.”
Other nominees were Nick Jones, Sharon Jones, James Lewis, Bill Prior and Lynne Vercoe.
