By Chris Williamson-
A Surbiton-based firefighter and campaigner has been nominated for a national award for action taken on sustainability.
44 year old Simon Jakeman has been selected in the final three in the Community Hero category of The Climate Coalition’s Green Heart Hero Awards.Green hearts reflect the belief in the possibility of a cleaner, safer future; the ambition and efforts of all projects regardless of how big or small they are. Eligibility for the selection process requires nominees to have a track record of transforming communities everywhere and joining the force of millions who are protecting the things they love. The Green Heart Hero Awards are an opportunity to celebrate these extraordinary endeavours of people and appreciate community members who do their best for the community.
In January, Jakeman was awarded with a British Empire Medal (BEM) for his work championing London Fire Brigade to be environmentally friendly.
The outstanding firefighter was given the prestigious royal award as part of the New Year’s Honours list after gaining a reputation as LFB’s “Super Green champion” for encouraging all 412 watches to embrace environmentally friendly policies.Wildlife Fund (WWF) at the Queen’s 90th birthday celebration on Sunday (15 March).
In 2010, he was nominated by the organisation to attend the event at Windsor Castle, in recognition of his volunteering work as an Earth Hour(opens in a new window) ambassador. Jakeman was also the driving force behind Surbiton fire station being named the greenest in London after converting its roof terrace into a vegetable garden.
Jakesman has been a firefighter for 22 years and has been nominated for his work to making Surbiton London’s greenest fire station, as well as travelling around giving advice to other fire brigades across the country.
The award ceremony will take place on Tuesday, March 13, at Parliament