Fleur Lombard: ceremony marks 20th anniversary of tragedy

Twenty years since her tragic death, firefighters from across Avon gathered for a ceremony at the memorial dedicated to Fleur Lombard, writes South West EC member Tam McFarlane.

On Sunday 4 February 1996, fire crews from the then Avon Fire Brigade, were called to reports of a serious fire at a supermarket in the Staple Hill area of Bristol. Tragically, firefighter Fleur Lombard, who was serving at Speedwell fire station at the time, died after being caught in a flashover while tackling the blaze. The 21-year-old was posthumously awarded the Queen's Gallantry Medal and chief fire officer's commendation in recognition of her bravery.

One of only eight women employed by Avon Fire Brigade at the time, Fleur was awarded the Silver Axe for most outstanding recruit on her graduation from training. A memorial to commemorate her life stands near the site of the fire in Staple Hill.

To mark the 20^th anniversary of the tragedy, staff from Avon Fire and Rescue Service joined FBU representatives, local politicians and other emergency service personnel alongside members of the business community to pay tribute to Fleur. The main street of Staple Hill was closed and members of the public filled the pavements to pay their respects.

A minute's silence was held to remember the inspirational courage of this young firefighter who died whilst protecting her community. The FBU laid three wreaths: on behalf of the national union, the FBU national women’s committee and the Avon brigade committee.

After Fleur’s tragic death a trust fund was set up as a fitting tribute to her bravery, courage and professionalism. Open to all UK fire service staff, the Fleur Lombard Bursary gives applicants the chance to win a scholarship to fund studies into firefighting and learning from other services from across the world.

Speaking at the memorial Kevin Pearson, chief fire officer in Avon, said: “Every year since Fleur’s death our staff mark the anniversary and there is no doubt in my mind that she will ever be forgotten. The ceremony was a fitting tribute to her memory and a credit to our service. I want to thank the FBU and everyone involved.”

I was very proud to lay the wreath on behalf of the national union, alongside Avon brigade secretary Chris Taylor. The moving ceremony serves as a reminder to what is really important in this sometimes mad world.

The loss of Fleur is as keenly felt now as it was on that terrible day in 1996. Staple Hill in Bristol fell silent as members of the public stood alongside their firefighters in memory of Fleur - a very moving show of solidarity. The thoughts of everyone in our profession are with the family, friends and colleagues of this inspirational young woman.

You can find out more about Fleur Lombard and the Fleur Lombard Bursary via Avon fire and rescue’s website.