We have appointed a new Assistant Chief Fire Officer following an extensive recruitment process.

Martin Blunden joins us with more than 20 years experience across three different fire and rescue services, having started his career in Buckinghamshire in 1994. Most recently, he has been Area Commander at Herfordshire Fire & Rescue.

Martin, aged 47, has also acted as a project lead for the Chief Fire Officer’s Association (CFOA), helping to ensure that learning from incidents that firefighters attend is identified and shared effectively.

Fire Authority Chairman Jim Andrews said, “The Authority is delighted to announce the appointment of Martin Blunden as Assistant Chief Fire Officer here in South Yorkshire. Martin brings with him a wealth of experience and will be a tremendous addition to the service’s executive team. The Authority looks forward to working with Martin in the future and maintaining the highest standards of service to the communities of South Yorkshire.”