30 years of South Wales Fire and Rescue Service
South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) was formed in 1996 through the amalgamation of the former fire brigades of South Glamorgan, Mid Glamorgan, and Gwent. This merger was a direct result of local government reorganisation in Wales, specifically the Local Government (Wales) Act 1994.
Now, as the service approaches its 30th anniversary in April 2026, a legacy initiative is being launched to honour the people, culture, and community impact of the service.
The Spirit of Fire project is calling on former and retired SWFRS staff and members of the community to share their memories, photographs, and stories as part of a cultural archive that will feed into the anniversary celebrations.
Were you, or was a family member, part of South Wales Fire and Rescue Service? The project team is inviting contributions from anyone who played a role in the service over the years, including firefighters, control staff, corporate and support staff or contractors.
Participants can:
This is a unique opportunity to reflect on what fire service culture truly means — what we preserve, what we celebrate, and how we carry it forward.
The team is also eager to hear from members of the public who have had memorable interactions with South Wales Fire and Rescue Service. Whether through an emergency response, school visits, charity events or community initiatives, every story helps build a picture of the Service’s reach and influence.
You can:
If you would like to take part, you can contact the Spirit of Fire team via email at:
spirit-of-fire@southwales-fire.gov.uk
or ysbryd-tan@decymru-tan.gov.uk if you’d like to communicate through Welsh.
Alternatively, you can post your contributions to:
Spirit of Fire Project Team
South Wales Fire and Rescue Service Headquarters
Forest View Business Park
Llantrisant
CF72 8LX
Join us in preserving the legacy and celebrating the spirit of those who’ve shaped the service and the communities it protects.