FLAGS are being flown at half-mast after a firefighter died suddenly. 

Nick Wilby, who joined Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service in March 2020, died at his home in Wilton on Friday, March 24.

Mr Wilby had recently completed his LGV driving course and was on his way to becoming an emergency response driver for his station in Wilton.

The fire service's Chief Fire Officer Ben Ansell said: “It is with great sadness that I confirm, on behalf of his family, the sudden passing of one of our colleagues. Firefighter Nick Wilby passed away overnight on Friday at his home in Wilton.

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“I speak on behalf of the entire Service when I say that we are all shocked and saddened by this news, and our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, colleagues and loved ones.

“We are supporting colleagues through this difficult time and in remembrance, and as a mark of respect, our Union flags will be flown at half-mast from today, Sunday, 26 March until Thursday, 30 March, when they will return to full mast."

Ben Ansell added: “I would like to request that the privacy of Nick’s family and colleagues is respected during this difficult time.”

Wilton Fire Station said: "We are heartbroken. This weekend we lost our friend and colleague Nick Wilby.

"Nick was big in both stature and character and has left a huge hole within our Crew that can’t be replaced. We are grateful for all the memories we have with Nick and will hold them dear in our hearts forever. Our thoughts go out to Nick’s family and loved ones during this difficult time, and we offer our sincere condolences. Farewell Nick, you will be missed."