FIRE Brigades Union members across Wales are currently working through some of the most challenging conditions we have experienced in recent years. We want to take this opportunity to say an enormous DIOLCH YN FAWR! to you, the people of Wales.

Rest assured that we will continue to do everything within our power to protect you, your families, your homes, your properties and our shared environment.

As FBU members, including firefighters, control firefighters, departmental crews, tactical officers, headquarters staff and many others, we want to thank you, our Welsh communities, for the unwavering support, kindness and generosity you have shown towards us during this extremely demanding time.

Whether it has been a shout of encouragement, a pat on the back, the incredible efforts of farmers and landowners helping us to create firebreaks, or the amazing donations of food and drink to our members, your support has made a real difference.

We want to give particular thanks to the many volunteers who have worked tirelessly to co-ordinate that support.

From Blaenavon to Conwy, Llandovery to Llangynidr, and from Ferndale, Treherbert, Tredegar and Penrhys to the Afan Valley, Rudry and everywhere in between, your generosity has truly lifted and energised every single one of us.

“Thank you” seems insufficient to reflect the level of gratitude we all feel. We are genuinely humbled by the support you have shown.

You have demonstrated the very best qualities of the Welsh nation: “Stoicism in the face of adversity, a determination to help others, and a community spirit that shows how much we can achieve when we focus on what unites us.”

At a time when communities across Wales have faced devastating fires and incredibly difficult circumstances, you have stood alongside your firefighters and shown us that we are never facing these challenges alone.

Diolch yn fawr for everything.

It is our privilege to serve you.

Together, we really are stronger.

And, as Dafydd Iwan sang:
“Yma o hyd!”

Yours gratefully,

Fire Brigades Union members of Wales