New fire chief appointed for Dorset and Wiltshire

Andy Cole has most recently been the service's director of community safety

The incoming chief fire officer for Dorset and Wiltshire has said he is committed to providing the "highest quality service" for residents.

Andy Cole has been announced as the new Chief Fire Officer, taking over from Ben Ansell who retires at the end of the year.

Mr Cole began his career at Castle Cary fire station in Somerset before becoming an operational firefighter in the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area.

Chair of Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Authority, Paul Oatway said he brought "significant strategic leadership experience" to the role.

Most recently Mr Cole has been the service's director of community safety - responsible for operational response, prevention, protection and safeguarding.

He received a Queen's Fire Service Medal in the 2020 Queen’s New Years Honours list for his work during the Coronavirus pandemic.

Mr Cole said it was a "privilege" to be appointed chief fire officer.

"I take great pride in the service we provide and the dedicated staff who work extremely hard to ensure we deliver this service to our communities and partners.

"I am committed to working hard to provide the highest quality service to everyone who lives, works, or visits the beautiful counties of Dorset and Wiltshire.”

The service has faced challenges in recent years with its workplace culture deemed inadequate following an investigation into claims of racist jokes, misogyny, and a lack of respect.

Financial pressures have also led to the removal of fire engines from a number of stations.