It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Gavin Tomlinson KFSM, former Chief Fire Officer and Chief Executive of Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service (DFRS), who died on August 27, 2025. Gavin’s loss is deeply felt across Derbyshire and throughout the UK fire and rescue community. A dedicated servant leader, he devoted over three decades to public service, beginning his career as a trainee firefighter in 1993 and rising to Chief Fire Officer and Chief Executive in 2019.
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What Happened
Gavin Tomlinson’s unexpected passing leaves a significant void in the fire and rescue community. He retired in February 2025, concluding a career marked by humility, dedication, and commitment to public safety. Reflecting on his tenure, Gavin once said:
“It has been a privilege to serve as Chief Fire Officer for Derbyshire.”
His legacy of service, safety, and continuous improvement continues to resonate across the county and the UK.
Who Was Gavin Tomlinson?
Gavin’s career spanned more than three decades, leaving a lasting impact on fire safety locally and nationally. He was awarded the King’s Fire Service Medal (KFSM) in 2023 in recognition of his distinguished service.
Beyond Derbyshire, Gavin played a key role in shaping national fire safety policies, serving on the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) and as Chairman of the Protection and Trade Safety Investigation Committee. He contributed significantly to reforms in the Fire Safety Act, following the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, improving public safety standards across the UK.
At DFRS, Gavin championed innovation, inclusion, and continuous improvement. Under his leadership, the service earned a ‘Good’ rating from His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services, reflecting his commitment to accountability, transparency, and excellence.
Public and Social Media Reaction
The news of Gavin’s passing has inspired heartfelt tributes from colleagues, friends, and the wider fire and rescue community. Current DFRS Chief Fire Officer and CEO Rob Taylor paid tribute to Gavin’s enduring legacy:
“Today is a very sad day for Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service and the fire and rescue sector. Gavin Tomlinson’s work, both locally and nationally, has left a lasting impact that will continue to guide our service.”
Official Statement and Next Steps
An online book of remembrance is being prepared for friends, colleagues, and the public to share memories and tributes. Details will be shared in due course. As the community mourns Gavin, his legacy of leadership, service, and dedication will continue to shape the fire and rescue sector for generations to come.
Conclusion
Gavin Tomlinson’s life was defined by purpose, service, and commitment to others. He leaves behind a legacy of excellence in public safety and a profound impact on the fire and rescue community. May he rest in peace, and may his family find strength in the outpouring of love and respect from those whose lives he touched.
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