News / New fire chief for the islands
THE NEW fire chief for Shetland, Orkney and the Western Isles has vowed to put “local people” and communities at the heart of his work as he settles into the role.
Fraser Burr took over as local senior officer for the islands at the end of last week, replacing the outgoing Billy Wilson.
He joined the service in 1988 before graduating to roles within the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service such as prevention and protection regional coordinator.
“I am very enthusiastic about working with local people, because they absolutely need to sit at the heart of our efforts,” Burr said.
“The important thing is that our communities are left in no doubt that we are working tirelessly to protect them.”
The new fire chief, who paid tribute to the work done by his predecessor Wilson, added that he recognises the individual challenges of each group of islands.
“To be honest, I have not stopped smiling since my appointment because I am working to help protect one of the most beautiful areas of Scotland,” he said.
“The islands are stunning, each in their own unique way – and I am fully aware that they each have their own unique needs.”
One of the recent issues which has faced Shetland’s fire service has been the lack of retained fire fighters.
A recruitment drive was launched in August to attract more people to the service, which at the end of July was 50 short of its full complement.
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