Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service Newsdesk

at 10/12/2008 15:04

Cornwall County Fire Brigade’s Chief Fire Officer Matt Littmoden has announced he is to retire on 31st March 2009, after completing 30 years in the Fire and Rescue Service.

Matt joined Cornwall County Fire Brigade in January 2004 from Essex Fire and Rescue Service to take up the post of Deputy Chief Fire Officer. He was promoted to Chief Fire Officer in March 2005 when the previous CFO retired.

Matt started his career as a firefighter in Essex in 1978 and was promoted to the rank of Leading Firefighter in 1985, Sub Officer in 1990, Station Officer in 1993 and Assistant Divisional Officer in 1994. He was made Divisional Commander in 1997 before moving to Cornwall in 2004.

David Whalley, Leader of Cornwall County Council said, “Matt Littmoden has led the Fire Brigade through a period where great changes have been necessary to the Brigade. He can be proud of his service to Cornwall and the Fire Brigade. I wish him a happy retirement.”

Speaking of his time in the service, Matt said, “It has been an honour and a privilege to have served within the Fire and Rescue Service for 30 years. I consider that the men and women of Cornwall County Fire Brigade are the best in the country and that the people of Cornwall should be proud of their commitment and dedication. I am confident that all members of the Brigade will do their utmost to maintain their focus on making Cornwall a safer place to live, work and visit after the move to the new unitary authority.”

Ken Yeo [Lib Dem] Executive Member for Public Protection added, “Matt has worked very hard to protect the people of Cornwall and its visitors during his time with Cornwall County Fire Brigade. In addition to his commitment to the service, he also plays a major role in The Fire Fighters Charity, the national and only charity dedicated to supporting firefighters and their families in times of need. I have enjoyed working with him immensely and wish him and his family well for his retirement.”