Mayoral Medal awarded for work with young people

Youth Engagement Manager Andy Payne has earned one of the county’s most historic and coveted community service awards.

Andy was one of only six people chosen to receive the time-honoured Mayoral Award at a special ceremony at the Guildhall in April.

The medals were originally presented by the Mayor to those returning from the First World War in order to thank them for their service to country and city.

Now, the award recognises those who have devoted their lives to community service and improving the city.

Andy received the award for his dedication to helping young people throughout the county.

His Stay Safe Days event has been delivered to thousands of young people throughout the county in the past four years.

The multi-agency Stay Safe Days deliver messages about street first aid, cyber safety, anti-social behaviour, positive choices, and fire safety and have received glowing feedback from students, teachers and partner agencies.

The award also recognises Andy’s efforts in fighting for and securing extra funding to develop the Service’s Prince’s Trust Team programme to host an additional three courses – or 50 more people – each year.

Andy said: “I am honoured to be the first person from the fire service to win the Mayoral Award, but the award must go to the whole department and our partner agencies too, as they consistently go the extra mile to give young people the chance of a better life.”

Mayor of Lincoln, Councillor Kathleen Brothwell, said: “Each of the six Mayoral medal winners has shown true dedication and selflessness when working in our communities, making a real difference to people’s lives every day. These people are often our unsung heroes.”

Chief Fire Officer Dave Ramscar agreed, adding: “Andy has always expressed a genuine interest in young people’s needs, and it’s obvious to anyone who works with him that his job is close to his heart – this prestigious award is very well deserved.”