Fire chief wants to help Lewes Women blaze to success

It’s no false alarm – a fire chief has sponsored one of the stars of the Lewes FC Women’s team.
By Steve Bone
Published 3rd Jan 2021, 10:00 BST
East Sussex fire chief Dawn Whittaker and Lewes forward Simran JhamatEast Sussex fire chief Dawn Whittaker and Lewes forward Simran Jhamat
East Sussex fire chief Dawn Whittaker and Lewes forward Simran Jhamat

Following East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service’s decision to join the Lewes FC’s SisterShips programme, chief fire officer Dawn Whittaker has sponsored young forward Simran Jhamat.

The SisterShips are predominantly local women’s organisations associated with the club because they empower women and/or girls in some way. The club and the member organisations support and promote each other.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Jhamat joined Lewes in August, having represented England at U17, U18, U19 level having made her professional debut in January 2019.

Both Lewes FC and East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service are committed to changing stereotypes around women working in traditionally male-dominated environments.

CFO Whittaker said: “Although I admit to being more of a rugby fan (I am Welsh!), I have been inspired by what Lewes FC have done to support women. I was very pleased to sponsor Simran. It was great to meet her and hear more about her journey and passion. Come on you Rooks!”

Jhamat said, ‘I’m really happy to have Dawn’s support – I’m hoping I can put one in the back of the net in the name of sistership!”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Lewes director Karen Dobres added, “We need to show footballers and firefighters are not necessarily male, and that gender doesn’t dictate who can kick a ball and who can keep our community safe! It’s brilliant to join forces with the Fire Service and keep busting those myths.”