Tributes Pour In for Beloved Fire Chief Gavin Tomlinson
Gavin Tomlinson KFSM, former Chief Fire Officer and Chief Executive of Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service, has died aged 54. He passed away on 27 August 2025, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and national impact.
From Trainee to Top Fire Chief
Tomlinson’s career spanned over 31 years. He joined Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service as a trainee firefighter on 1 September 1993. Steadily climbing the ranks, he was appointed Chief Fire Officer in 2019. He retired earlier this year in February 2025.
“It has been a privilege to be the Chief Fire Officer for Derbyshire. By working hard I have been able to make a difference to the safety of people not only across Derbyshire, but nationally across the UK too,” Tomlinson said upon retirement.
King’s Fire Service Medal Winner
In June 2023, Tomlinson was awarded the prestigious King’s Fire Service Medal (KFSM) for his outstanding service. As National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) lead for protection and business safety, and chair of the NFCC Protection and Business Safety Scrutiny Committee, he played a pivotal role in reforming fire safety laws after the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.
Under his leadership, Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service earned a “Good” rating from His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS).
Heartfelt Tributes and Lasting Legacy
Current Derbyshire Chief Fire Officer Rob Taylor paid moving tribute:
“Today is an immensely sad day for Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service and the fire and rescue sector as we receive the sad news that our former colleague and Chief Fire Officer Gavin Tomlinson has passed away.
Through his work both locally in Derbyshire and nationally, Gavin touched the lives of many people. I know there will be a lot of people reading this news today who would want to join me in conveying their thoughts and sympathy to Gavin’s family.
I would ask that they are given the space and time needed to grieve the loss of a much-loved husband and father.”
Tomlinson leaves behind a legacy of positive change and inclusivity, having transformed Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service and helped shape national fire safety standards.
An online book of condolence is being organised, with details to be announced soon.
