A dedicated firefighter has received royal recognition for his commitment to protecting communities.

Kevin Phillip, a community firefighter for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, has been awarded the Queen’s Fire Service Medal (QFSM).

He was recognised in the New Year Honours list for his efforts to keep people safe through various initiatives, such as driver safety.

And he was personally congratulated by Chief Officer Alasdair Hay who spoke of an “unstinting professionalism” across the national Service.

A delighted and proud Kevin said: “I work in a small department that continually punches above its weight.

“But that just sums up the Fire Service - it has been and always will be a privilege to be part of this amazing Service.”

He added: “I just love my job as it involves working with so many partner agencies and amazing, caring people who work so hard to ensure the wellbeing and safety of others.

“I truly believe that what we do in the community makes a great difference – it is truly a team effort!”

Kevin joined Tayside Fire Brigade in May 1992 and was appointed in 2013 as the first ever community firefighter in the Dundee area.

Kevin’s individual contribution to fire safety, youth development and community involvement was rewarded when he was presented with the Evening Telegraph Community Spirit Award in 2015.

He also played a significant part in the Safe Drive Stay Alive campaign which has become the flagship multi agency road safety event in Tayside - ensuring the event was a success during the earlier years of its inception.

The event is now in its 13th year with around 4,500 young people benefitting from attending each year.

Gordon Pryde is the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s Local Senior Officer for Dundee, Angus and Perth and Kinross.

He said: “Firefighters like Kevin are a credit to their communities - and to the whole of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

“Kevin’s commitment to his community is hugely admirable and he fully deserves this honour.”

Chief Officer Hay added: "The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service sits where it does today thanks to the unstinting professionalism and dedication of all of its people.

“Many of our staff regularly go above and beyond what is expected of them and awards of this calibre only go to show that this dedication is recognised by peers and, indeed, local communities.

“My congratulations and thanks to Kevin – he is a deserving recipient of this honour.”