Liverpool is marking National Emergency Services Day today (Wednesday 9 September) with a special service celebrating the people who work and volunteer across the UK’s emergency services.

Also known as 999 Day, the annual UK-wide event honours those serving in the NHS, police, fire and rescue services, search and rescue teams and auxiliary emergency organisations.

A special service at Liverpool Parish Church will feature speeches from emergency service representatives, who will share stories highlighting acts of bravery and dedication.

Among those being recognised will be Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service cocker spaniel Scout, who is specially trained to locate missing people following building collapses and major incidents around the world.

Waterstones Children’s Laureate Frank Cottrell-Boyce will also take part in the service, reading a poem he has written for the occasion titled The Beacon on the Hill.

The event will also feature a performance from The Lighthouse Choir, which was formed over Zoom during the Covid-19 pandemic.

National Emergency Services Day takes place annually on 9 September, providing an opportunity to recognise the work of emergency services personnel and volunteers across the UK.

Lord Mayor, Cllr William Shortall, said: 

“The emergency services represent some of the very best values of our communities: service, integrity, teamwork, and selflessness. 

“Their work reminds us that courage is not measured by recognition or reward, but by a commitment to helping others.

“On this 999 Day, we also recognise that bravery extends beyond the emergency services themselves. Families support loved ones who work demanding and often difficult roles. 

“Volunteers give their time to protect and help their communities. Members of the public step forward to assist strangers, perform first aid, or provide comfort in times of need. Together, they form a network of resilience and care that strengthens our society.”

Council Leader, Cllr Liam Robinson, said: 

“The number 999 is known by every person in this country. It is the number we call when we are frightened, in danger, or facing our most difficult moments. Yet behind those three digits are dedicated professionals who answer that call every single day, often without knowing what awaits them on the other end.

“This service gives us a chance to pay tribute to our police officers, firefighters, paramedics, ambulance crews, call handlers, coastguard personnel, search and rescue teams, and all those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep our communities safe.”

Chief Fire Officer, Nick Searle, said: 

“It is fantastic to be here on National Emergency Services Day celebrating the work of all emergency services. 

“Here in Merseyside we have an incredible team of operational and support staff who are always ready to support our emergency services partners and the community in their hour of need. 

“We are also responsible for the coordination of National Resilience as we have just demonstrated in the unprecedented wildfires that have swept much of the country, with our Fire Control operators and firefighters going above and beyond to support Fire and Rescue Services facing unique challenges. 

“It is also great to see our Search and Rescue dog Scout recognised as part of the UK International Search and Rescue Team, also coordinated from MFRS, in the vital work of searching for casualties during major international incidents. 

“I would like to thank all emergency services workers for their commitment to their communities.”

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