A TOP fire officer who lives in Halton is the new boss of Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service.

Mark Cashin, currently Cheshire’s deputy chief fire officer, has been appointed as the new chief fire officer and chief executive after a rigorous selection procedure.

Mr Cashin, 49, will take up the post on July 1 taking over from Paul Hancock who recently announced his retirement.

Chairman of Cheshire Fire Authority Cllr Bob Rudd said: “I am delighted to announce Mark as our new Chief Fire Officer as I know he has all the right qualities to lead our Service in the future.

“Our interview and selection process was extensive and demanding and, while the panel was impressed with the quality of those shortlisted, we know we have the right person for the job.”

Mr Cashin, who lives in Moore with his wife and daughter, said: "“It is a real honour to be the new chief fire officer for Cheshire.

"Since I joined the service I have been, and continue to be, hugely impressed with the level of commitment and dedication shown by all our staff.

“We are well-known for our innovative approach to reducing the risks facing our residents and businesses and I want to put on record my 100 per cent commitment to further improving the safety and wellbeing of the communities we serve.”

Manchester-born Mr Cashin started his career after joining Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service in 1990.

He is also the national chairman of the Fire Service Prince’s Trust Association.

Until recently he led the National Prevention Committee for the Chief Fire Officers Association, recently renamed the National Fire Chiefs Council.

Mr Cashin was also responsible for a successful national campaign to change the law to requiring landlords to have smoke alarms in all their properties.

Fire Authority members thanked current Chief Fire Officer Mr Hancock for his leadership and expertise since his appointment in 2009.