Chief announces retirement to smooth succession

TYNE and Wear's most senior firefighter is set to retire. Peter Heath, the Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service's chief fire officer, has confirmed he will leave his post next March.

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The Scot joined the service in 2019 and later succeeded Chris Lowther in the top job in 2023.

A report to the county's Fire Authority said his decision to step aside "has not been made lightly and reflects both personal considerations and a desire to allow for a smooth and timely leadership transition within the organisation".

Mr Heath told councillors at a meeting at the service's Washington headquarters on Thursday that he would "remain committed" for the last six months of his career, as a replacement chief is recruited.