Avon Fire and Rescue Service Chief Announces Retirement After 32 Years

Simon Shilton, the Chief Fire Officer (CFO) of Avon Fire and Rescue Service (AFRS), has declared his intention to retire. This announcement comes after what he described as a “turbulent few years” for the organization. Mr. Shilton has dedicated 32 years to AFRS, assuming the role of CFO in March 2022. Prior to this, he served as assistant CFO, working alongside his predecessor, Mick Crennell. His resignation was submitted in September, six months before his official retirement date of March 31, a timeframe intended to facilitate the appointment of his successor. Speaking to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, Mr. Shilton stated, “It has been my honour and joy to serve my community, alongside so many incredible people.” He further remarked, “To be finishing my career in the service I joined is a great privilege and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed every role I’ve had the honour of undertaking across the services I’ve worked in.” He also commented, “Avon Fire & Rescue Service has some incredibly passionate and dedicated staff, truly committed to making the service the best it can be.” Over recent years, the service has been the focus of critical assessments by HM Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS). A 2017 report from the oversight body identified “deep-seated cultural issues,” insufficient racial diversity, “endemic” bullying—especially targeting staff from ethnic minorities—and an “old boys’ club” involved in “backdoor payouts.” The subsequent year, the watchdog identified three “causes of concern,” among them a failure to adequately safeguard the public through fire safety regulation. In November 2023, the service received an “inadequate” rating in four out of 11 evaluated areas, a classification Mr. Shilton characterized as “upsetting.” Although progress had been observed in certain domains, including fire prevention and data concerning high-risk structures, inspectors indicated that further efforts were required to improve the service’s culture. Mr. Shilton stated, “I am confident that with the strong foundations I have been so passionate about developing within the service, alongside improvements in the service’s governance, the organisation will only continue to thrive.“As I step away from the service, I have every confidence the organisation will continue its journey with new leadership.”