Mark Preece has been announced as the chief fire officer at Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS) following a highly competitive recruitment process.

He took over as the interim chief fire officer in May 2021, following the departure of Wayne Bowcock who left to become the new chief executive and chief fire officer of Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service.

Mark has made strong progress on projects within the fire service during that time and the county council's appointments committee was unanimous in its decision to offer him the post permanently.

He joined GFRS as assistant chief fire officer in December 2019, and became deputy chief fire officer in November 2020. He co-ordinated the incredible COVID-19 response at GFRS and has driven forward the service's improvement journey.

Mark began his career with Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service 30 years ago and has worked in a range of senior roles.

Mark Preece, chief fire officer for GFRS, said: "It's a great honour to have been appointed. I am extremely proud and privileged to serve Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service in this role and will be working as hard as I can to provide the best possible service for the people of Gloucestershire.

"I want them to have a fire service they are proud of and I am committed to ensuring the progress we are making continues."

Cllr Dave Norman, cabinet member with responsibility for the fire and rescue service, said: "I'm delighted that Mark has been appointed as the chief fire officer at Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service. During his 12 months as interim fire chief, he has impressed with his leadership skills and the progress made in the service's ongoing improvement journey.

"His appointment will provide the service with great stability going forward and I have every confidence he will keep Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service heading in a positive direction."