TRIBUTES have been paid to a former fireman who led one of the region’s brigades for more than a decade.

Alf Thompson, who retired as Chief Fire Officer for County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service in 2000, died in hospital after a short illness on March 4, aged 66.

Mr Thompson was involved in the creation of a fire safety education unit, which played a major role in reducing the number of deaths in the county to the national average, from double the rate, and increasing smoke alarm ownership from 26 to 70 per cent.

He was awarded the OBE in 1998 for services to the community.

Mr Thompson, who lived at East Butsfield, near Consett, was married to his wife, Kate, and had one son, Andy, as well as two grandchildren, Maeve and Nell.

Susan Johnson, current chief executive of County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Alf Thompson was a very well respected and very well liked Chief Fire Officer.

“During his time with CDDFRS, he instigated a great deal of collaborative work with other organisations and partner agencies.

“Alf also increased the professional standing of the service both locally and nationally, which is a positive legacy for the service today.”

Born in Cleethorpes in 1949, Mr Thompson spent his early working life in the Merchant Navy, joining the fire service in 1969 in Lincolnshire and Lindsey.

After he gained promotion he moved around the country, serving in Manchester, Warwickshire and Kent before he was appointed Chief Fire Officer of Durham Fire Brigade in 1990.

His friend, Richard Bull, former Chief Fire Officer of Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, said: “He was a very proud man whose caring, thoughtful and energetic character was well known throughout the service and he was highly respected by colleagues.

“His contribution and influence within national, regional and local contexts was valued by all.

“In his spare time and in retirement he enjoyed golf, DIY, and was very fond of animals, particularly horses and greyhounds which engaged much of his time.

“Many messages of condolence have been received from home and abroad demonstrating the high esteem he was held by family, friends and colleagues. “His contribution to the safety of the people of County Durham in their domestic, social and working lives was first class due to his professionalism, sense of purpose and fortitude.”

Mr Thompson’s funeral service will be held at Durham Crematorium on Monday, March 16, at 1pm. Donations in lieu of flowers will go towards The Greyhound Trust.