Lincolnshire Emergency Medical Response (LEMR) was proud to attend the annual Emergency Services Day flag-raising ceremony in Grantham on 9 September, joining emergency service colleagues, charities, and community partners in recognising the dedication of those who serve and protect our communities.
Hosted by South Kesteven District Council (SKDC), the event brought together representatives from across Lincolnshire's emergency response network to mark Emergency Services Day, also known as 999 Day. The ceremony took place at the symbolic 9th hour of the 9th day of the 9th month, highlighting the vital contribution of emergency responders and volunteers throughout the county.
LEMR volunteers stood alongside colleagues from the East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS), Lincolnshire Police, Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue, St John Ambulance, Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance, Lincolnshire Emergency Blood Bikes (LEBB) and Lincolnshire Integrated Voluntary Emergency Service (LIVES) in a powerful display of partnership and community spirit.
The event was attended by local dignitaries, elected members and council officers, with the flag being raised by retiring police officer Mark Barrwho was recognised for 20 years of dedicated service with Lincolnshire Police. A prayer of thanksgiving was also delivered by Father Peter Das of St Wulfram's Church.
LEMR's attendance highlighted the important role military volunteer responders play in supporting communities across Lincolnshire. Working alongside statutory emergency services, LEMR volunteers provide immediate life-saving assistance within their local areas, often arriving at incidents ahead of ambulance resources and delivering vital care when every second counts.
Following the ceremony, LEMR's PR and Fundraising Manager, Ben Machin, expressed his appreciation to the organisers for including the charity in the celebrations and for helping raise awareness of the invaluable work carried out by emergency responders and volunteer organisations throughout the county. Debbie Nicholls, Armed Forces and Communications Officer at South Kesteven District Council, praised the event for raising the profile of emergency response services and life-saving charities across the region.
The day also provided an opportunity for organisations to strengthen existing partnerships and explore future collaborative projects aimed at supporting local communities, promoting volunteering, and enhancing public awareness of emergency response services.
LEMR would like to thank South Kesteven District Council for the invitation and congratulate everyone involved in delivering a successful and meaningful event. We are honoured to have stood alongside our emergency service colleagues and fellow volunteer organisations in celebrating the dedication, professionalism and commitment shown every day by those who respond when people need help most.
Together, we continue to serve our communities, save lives and support the emergency services across Lincolnshire.
