Scottish Fire Service Chief steps down amid 'investigation into conduct allegations'

Martin Blunden was suspended from his role in March

Martin Blunden
Author: Finlay JackPublished 1st Sep 2022
Last updated 1st Sep 2022

Martin Blunden has stepped down from his role as Chief Officer of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) amid a former investigation into his conduct.

Chair of the SFRS Board, Dr Kirsty Darwent, said: “I can confirm that Martin Blunden has stepped down as Chief Officer of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

"As has been previously reported, Mr Blunden was subject to a formal investigation into conduct allegations.

"Due to confidentiality, I am unable to comment any further.

“We expect the highest standards of our staff and take any allegation regarding their conduct extremely seriously.

“We have robust procedures in place to ensure complaints are investigated in line with our clear policies and procedures.”

Mr Blunden was previously suspended from his role in March this year.

The nature of the investigation into the suspension hasn't been made public.

Ross Haggert, who was named as Interim Chief Officer following Mr Blunden's suspension, will continue in the role, assisted by Stuart Stevens.

Hear all the latest news from across Edinburgh, the Lothians, Fife and Falkirk on Forth 1. Listen on FM, via the Rayo app, on DAB or on your smart speaker.