Statement from Matt Wrack, FBU General Secretary

Paul Fletcher

It is with deep regret that I have to inform you that in the early hours of Monday morning Brother Paul Fletcher, of the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, collapsed and died whilst attending an incident.

Paul was recently elected as Chair of the Southern Region of the Fire Brigades Union, following on from the role of Region 12 ULR coordinator. He had started this position two years into the project, but he quickly progressed the Southern Region to the fore.

He was instrumental in assisting the Isle of Wight to become the first F&RS in the UK to achieve the Go Fire Award. In the process he won the Local Government Go Award ULR of the Year. He was also due to collect an award at the Learndirect ceremony in October.

With all this work he made many friends both in and outside of the Fire and Rescue Community. Paul had the unique ability to win the respect of trade unionists and Chief Officers.

Paul’s funeral will take place on the Isle of Wight on Wednesday 9th September at 1.30pm; anyone seeking any further information please contact the Regional Office.

Tragically Paul leaves a wife, daughter aged seven and son aged four. He will be deeply missed by all who came into contact with him and our heartfelt condolences go to his family and friends.

A book of condolence has now been set up, and can be accessed via the following web address www.paulfletchermemorialfund.org.uk

The Union has set up a memorial fund, the details are below. The account will be administered by local officials.

Name of Fund: Paul Fletcher Memorial Fund
Name of Bank: Unity Trust Bank PLC
Account Number: 33018807
Sort Code: 08-60-01

Best wishes.

Yours fraternally

MATT WRACK
GENERAL SECRETARY