LAST WEEKEND the Bridgend Extrication team at South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) were crowned World Rescue Champions – Best Extrication Team at the prestigious World Rescue Challenge 2025.
The event, hosted in Karlovac, Croatia, brought together elite firefighting and rescue teams from 32 countries to compete in challenging vehicle extrication and trauma scenarios.
Outstanding Results for Bridgend Team:
- World’s Best Tool Operators: Mark Iles, Nathan Moyle, Matthew Edwards, Oliver Roberts
- 2nd Place – Medical Category: Danny Gale, Rob Buckley
- 2nd Place – Incident Commander Category: Roger Magan
This achievement marks the ninth World Rescue Title for the Bridgend Team and SWFRS.
The World Rescue Challenge is more than a competition: it is an opportunity for teams to test their skills under pressure, share knowledge, and develop life-saving techniques that are taken back to frontline operations. Teams are presented with unknown scenarios, ensuring they are tested on their adaptability, decision-making, and technical expertise.
SWFRS Chief Fire Officer Fin Monahan said: “I am over the moon for our South Wales Fire and Rescue Bridgend Vehicle Extrication team who once more became world champions in their class at the World Rescue Challenge held in Croatia. Their drive for operational excellence is outstanding.
“This incredible achievement reflects the skill, professionalism, and dedication of our Bridgend Extrication Team. Not only have they proven themselves on the world stage, but they continue to bring back knowledge and best practices that benefit our crews and, most importantly, the communities we serve.
“Many of our crews in SWFRS take part in vehicle extrication challenges at the national level, building teamwork, technical skill, and operational excellence.
“This means that if you are driving on the M4 or other roads across South Wales, and you are unfortunate enough to be involved in a road traffic collision, the firefighters who come to rescue you will be trained to the highest international standards.
“Where every second counts, the effort our teams put into their training – often in their own spare time – translates directly into life-saving results for the public.”
The Bridgend team has been competing for over 20 years, both nationally and internationally, and has developed more than 20 individuals who have gone on to shape how Road Traffic Collision (RTC) rescue is delivered across South Wales. Team members have also supported the UK Rescue organisation and the World Rescue organisation in developing services and teams from around the UK and internationally.
Group Manager Roger Magan commented: “We are proud to represent SWFRS on the world stage.
“This result is not just about competition – it is about improving our rescue techniques, sharing knowledge globally, and ultimately saving lives and improving safety on our roads within the communities we serve in South Wales.”
