TRAILBLAZER BECCI’S STEPPING DOWN
Chief Fire Officer began back in 1992
STAFFORDSHIRE’S Chief Fire Officer Becci Bryant is to retire this autumn after five years in the post.
It will mark the end of a 29-year career as a firefighter, where she blazed a trail to become the first woman in the country to lead a fire service.
Ms Bryant, right, said today she is particularly proud of Staffordshire
Fire and Rescue Service’s response to helping local communities during the pandemic.
Announcing her decision to retire, she said: “The fire and rescue service has changed in so many ways during my career, with the most significant changes being linked to the work we undertake within the prevention arena.
“I feel very privileged to have been part of that change and the difference made here in Staffordshire through our home safety programme, our schools education programme and, of course, our incredible community sprinkler project.
“I honestly believe that our sprinkler project places the county at the forefront of ensuring the safety of firefighters and residents.
“I am also proud that the service has been an important part of the collective response to the Covid pandemic across the county, supporting our communities, our families and our colleagues at this unprecedented time.
“It has been a phenomenal joint effort and I firmly believe that there are many positives that can be transferred into improving life for people as we strive to return to normal.”
Ms Bryant, who lives in
Knypersley, became a firefighter in 1992. She was one of the first three female firefighters to enrol at Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service.
In 2005, she joined the Staffordshire service as an assistant area commander at Newcastle fire station before taking on the role of area commander at Tamworth.
She was promoted to Chief Fire Officer in 2016.
Ms Bryant, who officially stands down in October, added: “I am so proud of the difference the Service and my incredible staff have made and continue to make every day for local communities.”
Matthew Ellis, the outgoing police, fire and crime commissioner for Staffordshire, praised her achievements today.
He said: “I’d like to thank her for her years of tireless service and dedication on behalf of all the people of Staffordshire and wish her all the very best.”