Fire chief dies after 'sudden and short' illness

Rob Taylor died after short illness, the fire service said

Derbyshire's chief firefighter Rob Taylor has died after a "sudden and short" illness, the fire service has said.

Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service said it confirmed with "great sadness" that Mr Taylor died on Wednesday.

"The thoughts and condolences of everyone across the service are with Rob's family and friends at this time," a spokesperson said.

Mr Taylor joined the organisation in 2008, after moving from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service.

Mr Taylor, right, and predecessor Gavin Tomlinson, who died last month

He began his career in Derbyshire as a firefighter at Buxton Fire Station and rose through the ranks to become deputy chief fire officer in 2021.

He then took over the top role in the service in February this year, when he also became its chief executive.

Mr Taylor took over the position from former chief fire officer Gavin Tomlinson, who had stepped back from the role due to a health condition.

Last month the fire service confirmed Mr Tomlinson had died.

The service said it was offering support to all of its employees and Mr Taylor's family.

An online book of condolence will be set up for Mr Taylor, whose age has not been made public by the fire service, with details due to be announced.

Neighbouring Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service said it was "deeply saddened" by Mr Taylor's death.

A spokesperson added: "Rob was a respected leader, colleague, and friend to many, and his loss will be felt deeply across the fire and rescue community.

"Our heartfelt thoughts and condolences are with everyone at Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service at this extremely sad time."

As an interim measure, Derbyshire's Fire and Rescue Authority has appointed deputy chief fire officer Mick Sharman as acting chief fire officer, with area manager Clive Stanbrook continuing as acting deputy chief fire officer.