Tributes paid after sudden death of Wilton firefighter

Nick Wilby has been described as a highly valued member of the service

Author: Maria GreenwoodPublished 27th Mar 2023
Last updated 27th Mar 2023

Tributes are being paid to a Wiltshire firefighter who has died suddenly.

Nick Wilby who joined Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue in 2020 passed away at his home in Wilton on Friday.

His death has been confirmed by Chief Fire Officer Ben Ansell.

He released this statement:

“It is with great sadness that I confirm, on behalf of his family, the sudden passing of one of our colleagues. Firefighter Nick Wilby passed away overnight on Friday (24 March) at his home in Wilton. I speak on behalf of the entire Service when I say that we are all shocked and saddened by this news, and our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, colleagues and loved ones.

"Nick joined Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service in March 2020 and was a dedicated and highly valued member of our Service.  He had recently completed his LGV driving course and was on his way to becoming an emergency response driver for his station in Wilton.

"We are supporting colleagues through this difficult time and in remembrance, and as a mark of respect, our Union flags will be flown at half-mast from today (Sunday 26 March) until Thursday (30 March), when they will return to full mast.

"I would like to request that the privacy of Nick’s family and colleagues is respected during this difficult time.”

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