A SOMERSET firefighter has been commended with a medal in recognition of his service to keeping residents safe.

Mike Kerslake, of Red Watch at Yeovil Fire Station has been presented with a medal and certificate for his 20 year long service and consistent good conduct.

A spokesperson for Yeovil Fire Station said: "This morning here at Yeovil, firefighter Mike Kerslake of Red Watch was presented with his 20 year long service and good conduct medal by Group Commander Ainsley Bird.

"Congratulations Mike and thank you for your dedicated service."

Read more: Crop fire near Taunton extinguished with help from farmers

A Facebook post highlighting Mike's achievement received hundreds of likes and comments from locals thankful for his commitment to fighting fires.

Yeovil Fire Station crews recently attended a crop fire near Taunton, accompanied by crews from Taunton and Bridgwater Fire Stations.

The Somerset firefighters sped to Creech St Michael to extinguish the fire which had broken out in a field.

Local farmers were able to make a fire break to assist the fire crews in their efforts to smother the flames.