Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service have introduced their leadership team as a new Deputy Chief Fire Officer today joined the organisation.

Stewart Nicholson has joined TWFRS from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, where he served as Deputy Assistant Chief Officer since November 2021.

He is the first strategic level appointment made by Peter Heath who began in the role of Chief Fire Officer last month.

Today (Monday) the new Deputy Chief Fire Officer spoke of his “enormous pride” at working for one of the “best performing” fire and rescue services in the country.

He said: “I have already spoken about my enormous pride in joining such a fantastic service and I am excited to finally get started.

“Having worked in a number of different Services, I know that TWFRS has a reputation as one of the best performing in the country.

“As part of a new leadership team, I am looking to building upon all the great work already taking place across the Service.”

Chief Fire Officer Heath added: “It is great to finally welcome Stewart to our Service and I know you will all give him a warm welcome.

“He has lots of fantastic ideas about building on the positive work taking place across stations and departments.

“I was treated with such kindness when I first joined this organisation and so I know you will all make Stewart feel right at home here in Tyne and Wear.”

Stewart joins a new leadership in Tyne and Wear after the retirement of Chris Lowther as Chief Fire Officer last month.

Chief Fire Officer Lowther had announced his decision to retire in March this year and the process of appointing his successor began immediately.

Peter Heath, who had been serving as Deputy Chief Fire Officer in Tyne and Wear, was unveiled as the successful candidate in May.

He served as Chief Fire Officer Designate alongside Chief Fire Officer Lowther, during which time the recruitment for Deputy Chief Fire Officer got underway.

Stewart Nicholson was announced as the successful candidate in August and now takes on the role after the retirement of Chief Officer Lowther last month.