A Romsey Advertiser-backed campaign launched to prevent lives being lost in an emergency due to inconsiderate parking has won a clutch of top awards.

The Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service (HFRS) I Need My Space campaign aimed to deter motorists from parking outside fire stations or preventing crews from travelling down narrow streets.

The public played a key role in the initiative by sharing the life-saving messages on social media.

HFRS says firefighters and newspapers, including the Southern Daily Echo, also highlighted the importance of the campaign, which has now been recognised at the UK Social Media Communications Awards and the Public Service Communications Excellence Awards.

Paul Breakwell, head of communication, administration and inclusion, said: “Our work is all about helping to save lives.

“The success of this campaign is due to the overwhelming response from the public, the efforts of our fantastic crews and support from the local press.

“The impact has been felt by frontline firefighters and has undoubtedly caused a change in the behaviour of some drivers.

“I’m also delighted to see the team recognised for their hard work, creativity and dedication.”

The service beat off competition from specialised digital consultancies and corporate giants such as Adidas, Disney and Marks and Spencer.

I Need My Space was crowned Best Social Media Campaign in the country.

On the same evening HFRS also won two silver gongs at the Public Service Communications Excellence Awards for the I Need My Space campaign and for FireFlash, an internal video which provides a monthly round-up of the service’s work.

I Need My Space was launched after a spate of incidents in the emergency services were hindered by badly-parked cars and vehicles stopping in the wrong place.

Last year, the Advertiser revealed that Romsey firefighters were urging motorists to stay out of the yellow junction box in front of the Alma Road station.

Speaking at the time, watch manager Antony Hurle said: “Motorists are putting people’s lives at risk. The extra time it takes to get out (of the station) could be the difference between life and death.”