The vital role performed by the Isle of Man Civil Defence Corps was acknowledged during a presentation to honour two long-serving volunteers.

The organisation provides support in a variety of emergency situations, working alongside agencies such as the Constabulary, Fire and Rescue Service, Ambulance and Coastguard to keep people safe.

The Isle of Man Civil Defence has experienced a particularly busy 12 months, responding to incidents of severe flooding, taking part in searches for vulnerable missing persons and assisting the organisers of many high-profile sporting and community events.

Home Affairs Minister Juan Watterson MHK praised the contribution made by the Civil Defence Corps as he presented Steve Kelly with the bar to his long service medal in recognition of his 27 years with the organisation.

David Kermeen, who has completed more than 15 years of service, received the Civil Defence long service medal from Mark Kelly, the Department’s Chief Executive Officer.

Minister Watterson said: ‘The Isle of Man has a fine tradition of looking after people in their time of need. Civil Defence volunteers devote many hours of their own time each year to help protect the public and ensure that local events run safely. The commitment shown by Steve Kelly and David Kermeen, and indeed all those involved with Civil Defence, is testament to the great community spirit within our Island.’

Photo - left to right: Ian Young, Emergency Planning Officer, Juan Watterson MHK, Home Affairs Minister, Steve Kelly, David Kermeen, Mark Kelly, DHA Chief Executive Officer.