Trail-blazing firefighter to be honoured

Firefighter Lisa Muscarella, who is based at Halifax, is being recognised for her 20 years' service.

She was only the second woman to join the ranks when she signed up in 1989 – West Yorkshire's first female firefighter was Penny Rowntree, who joined two years earlier but later transferred to another brigade. "This job has changed so much in the past two decades," said Mrs Muscarella. "If I have helped move things along to make it easier for other women, then that's great."

Mrs Muscarella was also the first woman in West Yorkshire to become an aerial appliance instructor.

Eighty five firefighters and non-uniformed staff will be honoured tomorrow in recognition of 20 years' exemplary service. The ceremony will be held at fire HQ in Birkenshaw.

The Fire Service Long Service and Good Conduct Medal was introduced by Royal Warrant in 1954 and granted to firefighters and control room staff completing 20 years' outstanding service.