A statement from Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader, Derby City Council and Sam Dennis, Strategic Director, Place.
On behalf of everyone at Derby City Council, we would like to express our sincere condolences on the tragic and untimely passing of Chief Fire Officer Rob Taylor. This news comes as a profound shock to us all, especially so soon after the death of former Chief Fire Officer Gavin Tomlinson last month.
Rob was a dedicated and respected leader who served the people of Derbyshire with distinction. We are deeply grateful for his tireless work and sound advice through his collaborative roles, including his contributions to the Derbyshire Resilience Partnership with Derby City Council and his invaluable leadership in the multi-agency response to major incidents in Derby, such as the Assembly Rooms fire.
His professionalism and dedication were evident to all who worked alongside him, and his loss will be keenly felt across the community.
We extend our thoughts and deepest sympathies to the friends and families of both Rob and Gavin, as well as to all of their colleagues at Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service during this incredibly difficult time.