JUST one year remains until the launch of Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Authority.

The new authority will replace Dorset Fire Authority and Wiltshire and Swindon Fire Authority on April 1, 2016 after it officially began shadow status today.

The combination is the first of its kind and will help secure the future direction and development of both Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Services as well as the continued safety of the public in the two counties.

The new chief fire officer for the service will be Darran Gunter and he will work closely with the two authority chairs.

Cllr Rebecca Knox, chair of Dorset Fire Authority and Cllr Chris Devine, chair of Wiltshire and Swindon Fire Authority, said in a joint statement: “This combination comes after extensive development, research and consultation with politicians, members of the public and our members of staff.

“We would like to thank everyone who took part in the consultation over the last year, which showed overwhelming support for the combination as an option for us to reduce our costs  during these times of austerity while maintaining a professional emergency service.”

The combination is set make a big saving in the amount spent on the fire authorities.

The statement said: “The combination will make substantial savings of between £4-6 million per year, which will help us to protect frontline services as much as possible and continue to develop the services we provide to the community in the most efficient way.

“The combination will allow the two authorities to come together to build a safe, strong and resilient combined Fire and Rescue Service fit for the future.”

CFO Darran Gunter spoke of his pride at being appointed to the position.

He said: “I am very proud to have been appointed as the Chief Fire Officer for the future combined service and look forward to working with the two authorities, our staff and our community to shape the structure, direction and priorities of the Dorset and Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service.

“As we come together over the next year, we will be focused on ensuring we maintain our emergency service that is responsive to the local risks and needs and in continuing to protect the people living in, working in and travelling through our two counties.”