DAYS after making his debut as a referee in the Premier League – Sam Allison was named in the King’s New Year’s Honours list.

Away from the football pitch, Sam is a station manager with the Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service.

And he was recognised with a King’s Fire Service Medal (KFSM) in the honours announced last week.

He has been recognised for his drive and passion in promoting greater inclusivity across Dorset and Wiltshire, including his significant efforts working with harder to reach communities.

His work has seen Sam establish and lead a staff network that helps the fire service engage with minority ethnic staff.

Sam Allison has been named in the New Year’s Honours list – days after taking charge of his first Premier League match as a referee

Sam said: “I feel incredibly privileged to be awarded with such a distinguished medal.

“I’m grateful to everyone who has supported me in my career and been a part of my journey, supporting my vision for a more inclusive workplace.”

He added: “I would like to extend my gratitude to chief fire officer Ben Ansell and assistant chief officer Jenny Long for their leadership, guidance and support in my mission.

“I would like to thank my family, friends, colleagues and community for helping me reach a stage where I can proudly accept this award as a mark of my achievement.

“I will continue to drive change, challenge adversity, and always strive for excellence. Thank you for this unexpected and humbling award.”

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Chief fire officer Ansell said Sam’s leadership and hard work has led to significant improvements in how the service works, including an increase in minority ethnic staff.

During the pandemic, he led the service’s efforts to increase the take-up rates of the Covid-19 vaccine in under-represented groups and remote communities, such as those living on the canals and rivers of Wiltshire.

CFO Ansell said: “I am absolutely delighted that Sam has been recognised nationally for his outstanding leadership, passion and commitment to making the fire and rescue service inclusive for all.

“I send congratulations to Sam on behalf of everyone at Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, this medal is extremely well deserved.”