Good wishes as fire service’s Ewan retires
Former Perth and Kinross Group Commander Ewan Baird has retired after just under 28 years in the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS).
The senior figure – who hails from Coupar Angus – is said to have worked “tirelessly” for the people of Perth and Kinross.
Councillor Tom McEwan, Perth and Kinross Council’s housing and social wellbeing committee convener, took the opportunity to thank Mr Baird for his service when the committee met on Wednesday, September 7.
The SNP Blairgowrie and Glens elected member added: “I wish him all the very best for the future.”
The committee’s previous conveners also passed on their best wishes.
Conservative Blairgowrie and Glens elected member, Bob Brawn, said: “I would like to thank him for all his help during my time in tenure as convener.”
Mr Baird retired from his position as group commander on August 31.
He joined what was then Tayside Fire Brigade back in February 1995.
Mr Baird was first stationed at Macalpine Road Fire Station in Dundee and went on to work at various stations in Dundee, as both a firefighter and crew manager.
A spokesperson for the SFRS said: “Ewan jumped at the opportunity to progress his career by taking on a new role as a district liaison officer in his native east Perthshire, covering Blairgowrie and Strathmore – including the Glenshee and Strathardle areas – and worked for a number of years in this role.
“In 2012, he took over as station commander for Perth Fire Station and worked to ensure the implementation of a new Scottish Fire and Rescue Service was a seamless transition for staff and public alike.
“Since then Ewan has worked nationally at the SFRS headquarters in Cambuslang, being an integral part of the Prevention and Protection team implementing innovative national public safety programmes and responding to the challenges following the Grenfell Court fire.
“Latterly Ewan returned to take up the role as group commander with responsibility for Perth and Kinross and has worked tirelessly with partners in other services and local government to overcome the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic and contribute to wider public safety across Perth and Kinross.
“Ewan leaves with the appreciation and good wishes of all his colleagues.”