Crowds gathered as West Yorkshire firefighters abseiled down a hotel to launch the brigade's first ever awards.
The West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Awards 2008 will celebrate the bravery, dedication and excellence of firefighters, control room operators, fire and rescue staff and the public.
People have been invited to make nominations in five categories: Hero of the year, Young hero of the year, Wholetime station of the year, Retained station of the year, and Outstanding contribution.
Other awards include young firefighter of the year, chief fire officer's award and charitable achievement of the year.
Chief fire officer Phil Toase said: "Every single day firefighters put their own lives at risk to save others and our fire and rescue staff work tirelessly to support this and prevent fire and serious accidents.
The ceremony will take place on Friday, May 23 at The Queens Hotel, Leeds.
To nominate a person or your local fire station go to www.westyorksfire.gov.uk.
The deadline for nominations is Sunday, March 2.
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