Following a robust selection process a new Deputy Chief Fire Officer has today (Monday) been announced at the North East’s largest fire and rescue service.

Stewart Nicholson has been announced as the new Deputy Chief Fire Officer at Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service and will take up his post by November 2023.

Stewart joins Tyne and Wear from Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, where he has served as Deputy Assistant Chief Officer.

He is the first strategic level appointment made by Peter Heath who will replace Chris Lowther as Chief Fire Officer when he retires at the end of October.

Cllr Phil Tye, Chairperson of the Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Authority, chaired the Appointments Committee which made the final decision on the appointment of Stewart Nicholson.

He said: “Stewart was an excellent candidate and performed highly throughout the interview process.

“I am excited to see what he will bring to the role of Deputy Chief Fire Officer and look forward to working together for the communities of Tyne and Wear.

“The standard of candidates was exceptionally high and the process was extremely competitive and I thank all candidates for their effort and commitment to the process.

“The Appointments Committee was impressed at the standard demonstrated by each candidate and what they all offered”.

Peter Heath, who is currently serving as TWFRS Deputy Chief Fire Officer and Chief Fire Officer Designate, has today congratulated Stewart on his appointment.

Peter said: “This was an extensive and rigorous process and all candidates performed exceptionally well throughout each stage and I echo the comments of the Chair of the Authority and the members of the Appointments Committee, and thank them all for the work they have put in.

“Stewart was the strongest candidate and I look forward to welcoming and working with him when he takes up his role as our new Deputy Chief Fire Officer.

“He will have the opportunity to bring his ideas to the role and I am excited for him to be joining a new leadership team here in Tyne and Wear.”

Stewart Nicholson said: “I am incredibly proud to have the opportunity to serve as Deputy Chief Fire Officer here in Tyne and Wear.

“This Service has a reputation as one of the best performing in the country and I am excited to be part of a new leadership team led by Peter.

“There is lots of incredible work taking place across the Service but I am looking forward to bringing new ideas that will help us improve even further.

“I can’t wait to get started and want to thank Peter, and the Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Authority, for the opportunity to serve as Deputy Chief Fire Officer.”

Stewart Nicholson will be joining Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service by November when current Deputy Chief Fire Officer Peter Heath replaces Chris Lowther as Chief Fire Officer.