Dorset & Wiltshire Fire Chief to retire
Ben Ansell has served for over 30 years
Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS) has confirmed it's Chief Fire Officer is retiring at the end of this year.
Ben Ansell will step down from his role at the organisation on 31st December 2024, following more than 30 years of service.
It follows a report from the Fire Inspectorate last month saying there's 'too much unacceptable sexist, racist and homophobic behaviour' in the brigade.
Chief Fire Officer Ansell said he's 'honoured' to have led the combined service since 2016, but feels the time is right for new leadership.
“I am immensely proud of the progress we have made together as an organisation, particularly during the challenging times we have faced. The decision has not been made lightly, but I believe it is the right time for me to step down and allow for new leadership to guide our Service forward," he said.
Cllr Paul Oatway QPM, Chair of the Fire and Rescue Authority said that “it is a sad day for the Authority and Service to lose such an enthusiastic and dynamic leader but I fully support and understands Ben’s decision to retire after over 30 years of service, having led the organisation as an exceptional Chief Fire Officer and respected both locally and Nationally for the past eight years.”