Surrey Fire & Rescue Awards

The High Sheriff – Shahid Azeem DL recently attended the Surrey Fire and Rescue Service Annual Awards and Commendations Event, held at G Live in Guildford. The prestigious occasion was an opportunity to recognise colleagues for their achievements as follows;

  • Long Service and Good Conduct Medals.
  • 20 Years Service Awards.
  • 30+ Years Service Awards.
  • Certificates for Meritorious Actions.
  • Notable Achievements.
  • The Kirkpatrick Award – Best Trainee Firefighter of the Year.
    This event gives the Service a way to recognise publicly the achievements of our personnel
    in the presence of their family, friends, and invited guests.

As well as presenting some of the awards, Shahid made the following speech;

“Thank you to Surrey Fire and Rescue Service for the kind invitation to join you for this special evening. In August I visited the open day at Surrey Fire Rescue in Reigate and followed up in September when I had the pleasure of visiting Guildford Fire Station and was warmly welcomed by Woking’s Blue Watch crew, who were covering for Guildford due to an ongoing incident. That visit offered me an invaluable glimpse into the daily realities and challenges faced by firefighters. It was a reminder of the dedication, skill, and resilience required in your line of work and to see the fire equipment  Tonight, I am further inspired by the remarkable commitment demonstrated by so many across the service. From frontline firefighters and various teams and specialists that keep Surrey safe to volunteers who sacrifice their own time to contribute to the services work.  You play a vital role! Well, done to all receiving awards tonight, whether for long service or for a specific contribution in your role. Your efforts make an immeasurable difference to the communities you serve. I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank the loved ones here tonight. You, too, are a vital part of this community, and we are all incredibly proud of the strength and encouragement you provide. Thank you once again for your extraordinary service. I hope you enjoy the rest of the evening and take this opportunity to reflect on and celebrate your achievements.”

Chief Fire Officer Dan Quin said: “This event is a highlight in our yearly calendar, where we come together to recognise and celebrate the outstanding contributions and dedication of our colleagues and community members to keep the people of Surrey safe.  “Congratulations to all our award recipients, and thank you to the friends, family, and loved ones who have supported them.”  

High Down Prison - 'Fostering a compassionate and effective approach to corrections that defies many of the usual perceptions.”

HM Prison High Down – ‘Fostering a compassionate and effective approach to corrections that defies many of the usual perceptions.’

The High Sheriff – Shahid Azeem DL, paid a visit to His Majesty’s Prison High Down where he observed the operations and met with inmates. allowing him a rare and meaningful insight into what he described as ‘a respectful, balanced atmosphere that has been cultivated.’

“The mutual respect and cooperation between the staff and inmates is remarkable,” he said, “I was particularly impressed by how attentively staff listened to the inmates’ concerns, taking time to address them personally, and by their genuine knowledge of each inmate’s background. This approach not only fosters trust but also contributes significantly to a cohesive, well-run environment that supports personal growth and rehabilitation.”

HMP High Down is a men’s category C prison and young offender institution (YOI) located near Banstead in Surrey. The facility holds 1203 prisoners and notably opened the renown “Clink” restaurant  in 2009 which was a ground breaking development in prisoner training opportunities.

Shahid continues, “It was a privilege to meet the prison Imam, and join the 200 Muslim inmates for Friday prayer in the Multi-Faith Centre and the sermon delivered was an inspirational reminder of individual responsibility, respect for others, and the pursuit of being a better human being – his delivery fostered a sense of community and encouraged personal reflection – qualities that clearly resonate well with the inmates.”

The High Sheriff pledged to contribute further by encouraging local volunteers to assist the prison with vocation training programs in plumbing, hairdressing, decoration, and brickwork. He added, “It is wonderful to know that organisations like ‘Elite Project Services’ ( read more at – https://inews.co.uk/news/uk/dwp-mentoring-scheme-ex-offenders-prison-leavers-944679), provide opportunities for inmates to work on real projects upon completion of training, and I look forward to facilitating additional support. Visiting High Down Prison was an eye-opening experience, and I am pleased to see such a compassionate and effective approach to corrections that defies many of the usual perceptions.”

Remembering our Fallen Heroes

The High Sheriff of Surrey – Shahid Azeem DL joined the procession and laid a wreath at the Armistice Remembrance Ceremony in Epsom. (11th November 2024.) Photos courtesy of Epsom & Ewell Borough Council (Oliver Clark).

He also visited The Muslim Peace Garden at Horsell Common near Woking, to lay a wreath and remember those who lost their lives during conflict.

#Epsom #Remembrance #epsomandewell #muslimpeacegardens #horsellmuslimpeacegarden #horsell #muslimburialgroundhorsell #woking #armisticeday #highsheriffofsurrey

Surrey’s High Sheriff re-visits his Guildford School.

The High Sheriff took a trip down memory lane recently when he revisited his old school – Kings College (then Park Barn School), Guildford.

Shahid Azeem DL, went to the school during the 1970’s and described it as ‘Grounding’. 

Speaking to children in the school’s library and in very much different times, he gave them a brief history of his own journey which led to heading many organizations in the Technology world and being a very successful business person –he currently heads up a UK/Europe IT Business with over 1,000 employees.

Shahid shared with the students his love for sport which began at the school and his goal of becoming a professional footballer was cut short due to injury, but his love for the game led to him chairing Aldershot Football Club. 

After a Q & A session during which Mr Azeem offered useful advice on succeeding in business, Headteacher Alastair McKenzie provided Shahid with a tour of the school whereby he pointed out many changes since his days there and shared stories about how it used to be. 

He said “When I was here all those years ago it was a challenging school and I was an obvious target being the only person of colour – however I learned to fit in and it was grounding. My time there stood me in good stead for the future and probably helped me to keep my feet firmly on the ground. Looking around now the school is almost unrecognisable and it has a very high standard. All credit to Alistair and his staff for providing a great and safe place to learn”

In a news article from ‘Surrey Live’ this summer. – Journalist Emily Dalton wrote, ‘A Surrey school has been praised by Ofsted – noting that even students ‘love how strict it is. Kings College in Guildford has been given a ‘Good’ rating by Ofsted inspectors, after it was was visited between June 5-6, with the results published July 8. Inspectors found students are proud of their school, with one student even saying “It’s strict, but a good strict, because the teachers really care.” The sponsor-led academy, which has 544 pupils, continues to be ‘Good’ from its 2018 inspection.’

In the main corridor there is an evident sense of pride with a prominent display of alumni. Mr Azeem who as High Sheriff of the County was approved by both Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and HM The King after his first term was restricted due to the Covid19 Pandemic, is a fine example of such an Alumnus. He said “It was a pleasure to return to Kings College and I am proud to have been a student there”

Photography by Andy Newbold.

The Mission & Vision of Charlie’s Promise

The High Sheriff met the founders of ‘Charlies Promise’ to find out more about their fight against the rising issue of knife crime in the UK and to help them raise awareness of the dangers of both carrying and using a knife.

CEO & Founder, Martin Cosser said of the visit, “We at ‘Charlie’s Promise’ were privileged to have the opportunity to meet The High Sheriff of Surrey – Shahid Azeem DL, and the Mayor of Farnham – Councillor Brodie Mauluka who is also supporting our Charity this year.  Shahid took the time to listen to our tragic story about the unnecessary loss of our beautiful son Charlie and the work we’ve been doing in the Home Counties to educate young people about the dangers and immeasurable impacts of knife crime. He pledged to help us as much as he can in raising awareness and profile, which will enable us to grow and fulfil our Charity Objectives.“

Charlie’s family and friends have created a website to educate people on the consequences of carrying knives and also offer support to families of victims of knife crime. (https://www.charliespromise.org)

Whilst Charlie was on life support, his Dad Martin made the most important promise of his life. He whispered in Charlie’s ear and promised him he would make it his life’s work to do everything he can to raise awareness of knife crime and the immeasurable damage it causes to the victim and their family and friends. 

If it can happen to Charlie, a young lad who didn’t like arguments and avoided trouble – he preferred silly dancing and making people laugh – it can happen to anyone.  

The High Sheriff said of the visit, “This is one visit that I wish was not necessary because no parent should ever lose a child to something as senseless as knife crime. It was extremely sad and emotional to learn how a teenager Like Charlie who goes to a party, never came back home to his family. There can nothing in life that is worse than having to bury your child. I urge people to visit the ‘Charlies Promise’ website and make themselves aware of the dangers of carrying knives and help Martin fulfil his promise to his son by educating their children. If you can support by fundraising too please do and I applaud the work done by Charlie’s brave family and friends so that other people do not have to endure the pain they have gone through. I too believe we are stronger together – when we work together we can achieve so much more.“

The Surrey Lord-Lieutenant Awards at Sandhurst.

On Thursday 17th October the High Sheriff attended the Surrey Lord-Lieutenant Awards Ceremony at Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.

The Lord-Lieutenant awarded Seven Meritorious Service Certificates from across all three Services and one Best Reservist Award. Also during the evening, seven new Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadets were appointed for 2024-25.

#surreylieutenancy #highsheriffofsurrey #RoyalMilitaryAcademySandhurst #surreycadets

BEM Honours for Surrey Residents.

The High Sheriff was in attendance at HMK Birthday Honours British Empire Medal Investitures, held at Loseley House in Guildford recently, hosted by The Lord-Lieutenant of Surrey – Michael More-Molyneux, who presented awards to six Surrey residents. He was joined by the Vice Lord-Lieutenant, Mrs Mary Creswell who read the citations.

The recipients were – Mr Selwyn Boothe – For services to Education, Mr Eric Champion – For services to the Riverside Arts Centre and to Culture in Spelthorne, Mrs Lynda Jones – For Voluntary Service to the British Red Cross, Mrs Rachael Lake – For services to the community in Walton on Thames, Surrey (NY Honours), Mr Lucas Maxwell – For services to Education and Dr Christian Wilcock – For services to the NHS and to the community in the London Borough of Croydon.

The High Sheriff – Mr Shahid Azeem DL, is pictured with Woking resident – Mrs Lynda Jones BEM and her guests who continues to give a lifetime of voluntary service, supporting the older and most vulnerable local people in the Woking area. A volunteer with the British Red Cross for over 60 years, she has supported the Red Cross by fund raising, undertaking ambulance duties on NHS work, first aid duties at local events and working in local hospitals.

Read more about Honours in Surrey on the Surrey Lieutenancy website HERE.

The Award Presentation at Losley house by HM Lord-Lieutenant of Surrey
The High Sheriff of Surrey – Mr Shahid Azeem DL with Mrs Lynda Jones BEM and guests.

FareShare Sussex & Surrey – No Good Food Should Go To Waste!

FareShare Sussex & Surrey were thrilled to host the High Sheriff of Surrey at their Guildford Depot on a recent visit. The visit was an opportunity to share the work of FareShare to redistribute food waste from all parts of the food industry to a network of 140 charities and community groups. These savings enable charities to invest precious funds into other key areas of work whilst receiving varied, quality food each week.

The High Sheriff said of his visit “The issue of food waste is one of my key focus areas during my term as High Sheriff and I was very impressed and encourgaged  by the operation at FareShare Sussex and Surrey. On a national level FareShare have redistributed 56,000 tonnes of food during 2023-24, helping around one million people as well as the environment. It is great to see such charities thriving and changing the way we think food wise in order to help combat hunger and improve the health of the planet for future generations.”

FareShare is the UK’s longest running food redistribution charity. They were born out of the belief that no good food should go to waste, especially when people are going hungry. This belief is as central to their work now as it was 25 years ago.

Also in the picture are Claire Hopkins and Andrew Osbourne from Surrey Charity – “Surplus to Supper’, another organisation with a common interest in food redistribution.

For more information about FareShare go to; https://fareshare.org.uk

Acknowledging the work done by ‘York Road Project’ on World Homeless Day.

The High Sheriff attended the open morning at ‘York Road Project’ resource centre this week. The charity, based in Woking exists to help people get off the streets, overcome housing challenges, and settle into a place they can call home. The event held on World Homeless Day was also attended by Will Forster MP.

The High Sheriff – Shahid Azeem DL said, “Woking is a town that works hard to support people with nowhere to live. I attended the open morning to catch up on what they have been doing and help raise awareness on the issues that face homeless people, especially as the temperatures start to drop. Contrary to popular belief it really can happen to anyone and the current economic situation has meant that organisations like York Road Project really do have their work cut out for them. Well done to Cherisse Dealtry and her team for the important work they do in the town.” 

Cherisse said “We were honoured to have the High Sheriff of Surrey, Shahid Azeem DL, at our event, acknowledging the vital role we play in helping those facing homelessness.”

To find out more or donate please visit;  https://yorkroadproject.org.uk

Photos supplied by ‘York Road Project’

Observing Surrey Police Officers at Work and the Challenges they Face – a Real Eye Opener.

I had the opportunity to spend time with Surrey Police, offering a firsthand look at the challenges and responsibilities they manage daily. Upon my arrival, I was met by Inspector Kayleigh Naismith, alongside Police Sergeants Pilkington and Clement. The evening began with a tour of the Custody Suite, where I was briefed on current staffing challenges as there were staff shortages for the shift.  This shortage highlighted the strain on resources, particularly in such critical areas of the police service.

I was then shown the CCTV operations for Guildford, where it was evident that several cameras required repair or replacement. These cameras fall under the jurisdiction of Surrey County Council, and their maintenance is crucial for public safety and effective policing. After signing the necessary waivers, I joined PC Bailie (age 22) and PC Vallance (age 21) for a ride-along to observe the policing of Guildford’s nightlife.

As we left the station, the officers received a call about an individual threatening to jump from a multi-storey car park in the town centre. We quickly arrived at the scene, where PC Dobie (age 19, though exuding the confidence and demeanour of a much older officer) had already engaged the individual, who was perched dangerously on a ledge. After approximately 40 minutes of tense negotiation, PC Vallance was able to bring the individual to safety with a swift and controlled move. Her composure, combined with the support of PC Bailie and PC Dobie, was impressive, as they restrained the individual and brought them under control.

After securing the situation, the officers were joined by PC Woodcock. Over the next 30 minutes, the police coordinated with their back-office to section the individual under the Mental Health Act. However, they encountered difficulties securing a bed in a specialist mental health facility, so the decision was made to transport the individual to a local Hospital. During this time, four officers were tied up managing this one incident, which shed light on the strain these kinds of emergencies place on police resources.

At the hospital, I observed the burden such incidents also place on the healthcare system. After several hours, the officers were relieved by colleagues, allowing them to return to the station to complete their reports before ending their shift.

This experience was a real eye-opener. The professionalism, emotional control, and competence of these young officers in such a potentially traumatic situation was remarkable. Despite the wider public concerns about police visibility and availability, the officers I observed were a credit to their uniform, handling a difficult situation with care and composure. It also gave me a greater understanding of the immense challenges police face daily. This experience has deepened my respect for the police force, despite the occasional criticisms they may receive.