news

Ross Irwin Suite unveiled at Service HQ

A training room at Service HQ has been officially renamed the Ross Irwin Suite, in honour of Crew Manager Dave Irwin’s son.

Ross lost his life in December 2016, when he fell into the River Wear after a night out in Fatfield, Washington. He was only 22. Since then, Dave has campaigned tirelessly to promote water safety and reduce drowning incidents.

CFO Chris Lowther, CM Dave Irwin and Fire Authority Chair Tony Taylor

This week, Dave was joined by family members and colleagues including Chief Fire Officer Chris Lowther at the unveiling of a new plaque in the room, which features a photo of Ross and the quote “Good time enthusiast”. Fire Authority Chair Tony Taylor also attended, as did Sharon Hodgson MP, Cllr Graham Miller (Leader of Sunderland Council) and Cllr Dom Armstrong.

The Chief and Dave both spoke at the event, before Ross’s younger brother Jack and CFO Lowther unveiled the plaque. As CFO Lowther said, Ross will always be part of our Fire Family.

month

november
month

october
month

september
month

august
month

july
month

june
Fire cadets in Tyne and Wear help prevent burns in Tanzania 24 September 2019
Prince's Trust Team Programme - September 2019 course places still available 12 September 2019