Gavin Tomlinson KFSM Death – 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 27 August 2025. His death marks the end of an extraordinary career that spanned more than three decades of dedicated service to the fire and rescue sector. Gavin’s professionalism, leadership, and integrity earned him the respect of colleagues, friends, and the wider emergency services community across the United Kingdom.
Gavin began his journey with DFRS on 1 September 1993 as a trainee firefighter. Over the next 31 years, his commitment to excellence and public safety saw him rise steadily through the ranks. His determination and skill culminated in his appointment as Chief Fire Officer and Chief Executive in 2019, a position in which he served with distinction until his retirement in February 2025.
As Chief, Gavin led Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service through significant challenges and a period of transformation. His leadership was instrumental in shaping the Service into one that prioritized inclusivity, transparency, and operational excellence. Under his guidance, the Service achieved a ‘Good’ rating from His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services, a testament to his vision and ability to deliver lasting improvements.
Upon retiring earlier this year, Gavin humbly reflected on his time in service, stating, “It has been a privilege to be the Chief Fire Officer for Derbyshire.” He expressed immense pride in the impact he made both within the Derbyshire community and at the national level. Those heartfelt words now stand as a moving testament to the legacy he leaves behind.
Beyond his local contributions, Gavin also played a vital role on the national stage. In June 2023, he was awarded the King’s Fire Service Medal (KFSM), one of the highest honors in the profession, recognizing his outstanding service. He also served as the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) lead for Protection and Business Safety, later chairing the NFCC’s Protection and Business Safety Scrutiny Committee. His work in these positions was pivotal in advancing fire safety legislation following the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, shaping national policy, and safeguarding countless lives across the country.
Colleagues remember Gavin not only as a skilled leader but also as a compassionate individual who championed fairness and inclusivity. Speaking on behalf of DFRS, current Chief Fire Officer Rob Taylor paid 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 many who 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.”
Plans are being made for an online book of condolence, allowing the public and colleagues to share their memories and messages of sympathy.
Gavin Tomlinson’s legacy will endure through the safer communities he helped create, the progressive policies he shaped, and the countless lives he touched. His passing is a great loss, but his impact will be felt for generations to come. May he rest in peace.