Essex Fire Service inquiry into 'intimidation'

The inquiry will look at the "intimidatory culture" at Essex Fire Service

An inquiry is being set up into claims of an "intimidatory culture" at Essex Fire Service.

The Essex Fire Authority launched the "root and branch" investigation after recent incidents which "threatened the excellent, professional reputation" of the service.

At an extraordinary meeting, members voted unanimously to commission a wide-ranging inquiry.

It was shown a confidential report by the acting chief fire officer.

Essex Fire Authority chairman Anthony Hedley said: "The authority emphasises the scope of the proposed inquiry will exclude, for as long as they remain sub judice, the events which; and individuals who are the subject of criminal proceedings before the crown court at Basildon, concerning allegations of misconduct at the former Tilbury Fire Station between 1987 and 1998."