All members of the Federation were deeply distressed to learn of the tragic event that unfolded on Friday evening in Warwickshire.

To the loved ones, families, friends and colleagues of those firefighters lost we offer our deepest sympathy, prayers and thoughts.

The loss of four firefighters is a stunning body blow and we all feel this as an immense personal loss.

The UK fire and rescue service is known as a very professional close knit community. So to is the wider fire industry and international profession and news of the tragedy has been received with great sadness.

Dennis Davis CBE OStJ QFSM

Chairman FOBFO