County Durham and Darlington FRS makes interim changes to top team

Stuart Errington, Interim Chief Fire Officer, County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS).

A new Chief Fire Officer and Deputy Chief Fire Officer have taken up their roles on an interim basis at County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS).

Stuart Errington, who has been with CDDFRS since 1993, will lead the fire and rescue service and Colin Bage, who joined the service in 1988, has been appointed deputy, following the retirement of Chief Executive Susan Johnson at the end of July.

“Having worked for CDDFRS at a number of fire stations and in a variety of roles during the past 22 years, it is a great honour and privilege to have been given the opportunity to lead this fantastic organisation,” said Chief Fire Officer Stuart Errington. “I am looking forward to working closely with members of the fire authority, staff across CDDFRS, as well as partner organisations, to continue to provide a high quality, professional service. I will also be working hard to ensure that we are as prepared as we can be for any changes or further efficiency savings that we may need to make in the coming years.”

Colin Bage, who will deputise for the Chief Fire Officer, will also take specific responsibility for operational response, performance, training and risk.

The temporary arrangements will stay in place until the fire authority considers what permanent arrangements members decide to implement.