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Des Prichard accepted his award from HRH Prince of Wales at Buckingham Palace accompanied by his wife Ruth, son Ben and his parents.

The announcement was made back in the summer in the Queen's Birthday Honours List 2006.

The Queen's Fire Service Medal is awarded by Her Majesty to those members of the fire service who have exhibited conspicuous devotion to duty.

Mr Prichard, who works at ESFRS headquarters in Upperton Road, has been in the fire service for 30 years.

He said, ''I am delighted to accept this honour, and do so on behalf of everyone at East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service.

''Our staff continue looking to improve their service to the public and lead the way in a number of operational initiatives.

''East Sussex Fire and Rescue is striving to make community safety our number one priority and I'd like to commend all staff for their outstanding contribution in making their local communities safer.

''I would like to thank all my colleagues for their valued support over the years which has significantly contributed to this award.''

During his career, Mr Prichard has been in charge of a number of major operational incidents including the Lewes floods of 2000 and the Royal Albion Hotel fire in Brighton.

More recently, he was involved in supporting the fire and rescue service response to the fire on board the passenger liner MV Calypso.

Councillor Michael Murphy, Chairman of East Sussex Fire Authority, said, ''This award is thoroughly deserved and I'd like to extend both the Fire Authority's and my own personal congratulations to our Des.

''His continued commitment, loyalty and service over the years have been exemplary.''

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