A fireman with 25 years of experience has described his appointment as the new chief fire officer as “a great honour and privilege.”

Jon Charters will take over in January 2025 when Justin Johnston retires after 30 years of service.

Having joined Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service as a recruit firefighter in 1999, Jon has worked in operational roles across the county and had several functional roles within service headquarters before becoming assistant chief fire officer in February 2022.

Jon said: “Being chosen as the next chief fire officer of Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service is a great honour and privilege.

“After working with Justin for the past 12 years and witnessing the huge impact he has made during this time, I will look to follow in his footsteps and maintain Lancashire's status as one of the top fire and rescue services in the country."

Chair of the Combined Fire Authority (CFA), County Councillor Nikki Hennessy said: “Jon has been a highly valued and trusted member of the executive board in his two and half years since becoming the assistant chief fire officer.

“He has engaged and supported all members of the Combined Fire Authority and led various projects that have made Lancashire’s communities safer. I am proud that he will be starting the next chapter of his career as Lancashire’s Chief Fire Officer.”

Justin announced his retirement in April and under his leadership, Lancashire Fire and Rescue were rated outstanding for values and culture by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services.

It was also named Fire Service of the Year in national awards and under his tenure the service significantly reduced the number of fires, injuries and deaths whilst improving the safety and compliance of more than 100,000 buildings and businesses.

They also became the national leader in the use of drones in firefighting.