Northamptonshire chief fire officer to be named as Nikki Watson

Nikki Watson was awarded the Queen's Police Medal for her work during the Covid-19 pandemic

A senior police officer has been announced as the preferred chief fire officer for Northamptonshire.

Nikki Watson, who recently retired as Deputy Chief Constable of Avon and Somerset Police, is set to take the reins.

It follows a turbulent period in July which saw interim fire chief Nicci Marzec quit after ten days.

Ms Watson's appointment is now subject to the outcome of a Police, Fire and Crime Panel hearing in December.

"Throughout my career I have worked hard to make a difference to people and communities, and I am committed to doing my best for Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service and for the county as a whole," Ms Watson said.

The move follows a 36-year career in policing, with the chief fire officer-elect awarded the Queen's Police Medal for her work during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Northamptonshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Stephen Mold said Ms Watson's commitment to public service "shone out" during the interview process.

He added: "I am confident that Nikki has the skills and qualities to take our service into the future and that her passion for public safety matches the dedication shown by our own firefighters and staff."

'Insulting'

But the new appointment has attracted criticism from the Fire Brigades Union, with executive council member for the East Midlands Adam Taylor branding it "insulting".

"We need our chief fire officer to have practical experience of keeping firefighters and the public safe when responding to fires, floods and other callouts," Mr Taylor said.

"The fire service is entirely separate from the police force and must not treated as an afterthought."

Deputy Fire Chief Simon Tuhill began acting up as chief on 18 July after Mark Jones stepped down from the role on 7 July.

His interim replacement, Nicci Marzec, resigned after after ten days amid speculation over her friendship with Mr Mold.

Ms Marzec has made no public comment since she quit.