The judges give their verdict on the winners, runners up and calendar favourites this year.
Members’ submissions were greatly varied in their subjects and compositions, and of impressive quality this year. Some images made us laugh and others were simply mesmerising. Many photos had interesting architectural elements, and others that told stories about the firefighters in view of – and behind – the camera.
Winner (pictured above): Paul Young
Suffolk Fire and Rescue coxswain power boat training on the River Deben, trialling a new helmet and training in boat handling skills. Judges’ comments: The colour contrast is brilliant – blue against bright red and yellow. The whole image feels bright and sunny, and you can really see the joy in the firefighters’ faces as they carry out the training. The framing within the firefighters’ glasses is excellent, and there is so much up-close detail on the helmet. It’s hard to take your eyes away!
Runner-up: Gordon Curran
Realistic training scenarios can be hard to organise on the Isle of Skye. A local builder allowed retained firefighters from Bowmore and Port Ellen to use a building for a training event, perfect for BA compartment search and rescue. Judges’ comments: Beautiful contrast of light and shadow here. We loved the minimalist composition, which reflects the experience of the firefighters, training with restricted vision. It’s cinematic – like a still from a film.
Runner-up: Hannah Tyler
This was taken at the recent Hotspur Press fire in Manchester on 23 June 2025. In the photo, firefighters are battling a terrible fire that destroyed one of the oldest mills in Manchester. The incident was attended by Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and neighbouring services. Judges’ comments: This photo tells a story of comradery, and you feel like you’re there with the firefighters at the incident. The arm around the shoulders is a striking way to visualise the teamwork and support with the crew. We loved the colours, with the dusky sky contrasting with the fluorescence of the uniforms.
