RFU member, Colin Smith said he was “stunned” to be recognised in the New Year’s Honours List. Mr Smith, 58, has been awarded an MBE for services to Local Government.

He has been a retained firefighter at Silsden Fire Station for 36 years and works full-time as a wood machinist at W Hanson Ltd Woodturners.

He has lived in the area nearly all his life.

He said he was first told he had been put forward for an honour on November 13, but did not learn the nomination had been accepted until December 30.

“I thought it might be a practical joke,” he said. “It’s a bit of a shock really.”

Mr Smith joined the fire service in 1974 after being encouraged to follow the example of a work colleague.

Mr Smith will be formally presented with his MBE at St James’s Palace, in London, later this year.

National General Secretary, John Barton said "Colin epitomizes the characteristics needed by those working within the Retained Service, dedication, commitment and a willingness to help others. On behalf of the RFU I would like to congratulate Colin, it will be a proud moment not just for Colin but also his family."