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9th July 2007
West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service has demonstrated a firm commitment to raising its profile regionally and nationally with the appointment of Hannah Stoneman as Head of Corporate Communications.
The post, which is the first of its kind within the brigade, indicates a significant investment by WYFRS in public relations and media services.
Hannah, whose previous posts include Head of Communications for Education Leeds and Head of Public Relations for Greater Manchester Police, now leads the service’s Media and PR Unit and Visual Services, and is responsible for developing corporate communications across the brigade.
Hannah, who joined WYFRS on the day West Yorkshire was hit by some of the worst floods in years, said: “It is great to be back in a blue light service again, especially working with one of the UK’s leading fire and rescue services.
“I will be responsible for co-ordinating and developing the communications function across the 2,500-strong service. There are plenty of opportunities to increase the profile of this award-winning public service.
“I chose one of the busiest weeks to join the service. It was a baptism of water, although I was incredibly impressed with the rapid response and resilience of officers to the major flooding across the region. Working around the clock, hundreds of people were successfully rescued and properties made safe during an unprecedented flood relief operation.
“The brigade’s Mobilising and Communications Centre received more than 200 calls from the public per hour and the PR team played a key role in maintaining a 24-hour media line. All in all, my feet have not touched the ground, but when they do, I have a pair of fire resistant boots for the job.”
West Yorkshire Chief Fire Officer Phil Toase added: “I am delighted to announce the appointment of Hannah Stoneman and I look forward to working with her on the Management Team.”
Hannah lives in Leeds and is married with two children. She is a keen motorcyclist, having undertaken advanced motorcycle training, and she rides a BMW R1200 GS.
-ENDS-
For further information contact Kelly Thornham in the Media and PR Unit
on 01274 655807.