WARWICKSHIRE Fire and Rescue Service have a new permanent chief fire officer in the form of Andy Hickmott.

Mr Hickmott has acted as interim chief fire officer since May last year and his appointment has now been ratified by Warwickshire County Council.

Commenting on his appointment, Mr Hickmott said: “ The next few years will be a period of change and it is a challenge I look forward to. I have every confidence in my colleagues that the service will emerge more resilient and equipped to deal with the challenges that face us.”

Mr Hickmott started his career in Royal Berkshire and transferred to London Fire Brigade five years later. He has a wealth of experience in service delivery, fire safety, operations, personnel and training, and technical services.

Leader of Warwickshire County Council, Councillor Izzi Seccombe, who chaired last week’s appointments committee, said:

“He has the experience and expertise to drive the force forward as it undergoes a period of transformation when it adapts to the changing needs of a fire and rescue service and we are delighted to make his appointment permanent.”