A 21-year-old firefighter who died after courageously battling a severe fire at a Bristol supermarket has been remembered by Avon Fire & Rescue Service. Fleur Lombard tragically lost her life in the line of duty 29 years ago after making ‘the ultimate sacrifice’ tackling the blaze at the Staple Hill store.
Today (Tuesday, February 4), Chief Fire Officer Simon Shilton, alongside serving firefighters from Kingswood Fire Station and retired colleagues lay wreaths at Fleur’s memorial as a tribute to her bravery and dedication. At 11am, a minute’s silence is observed.
Fleur’s remarkable heroism was recognised with the Queen’s Gallantry Medal and the Chief Fire Officer’s Commendation. In a further tribute, her legacy was posthumously honoured last year with the prestigious Elizabeth Emblem, presented by His Majesty The King. The Emblem commemorates public servants who have lost their lives in the line of duty, ensuring their sacrifices are acknowledged at the highest level.
Fleur joined Avon Fire Brigade in 1994 and quickly distinguished herself as an exceptional recruit, earning the esteemed Silver Axe Award as the most outstanding trainee of her cohort. She was the first female firefighter in peacetime Britain to die in the line of duty, and her memory remains deeply embedded in the hearts of her colleagues and the wider community. A memorial near the site of the fire in Staple Hill serves as a permanent tribute to her courage.
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Chief Fire Officer Simon Shilton said: “The loss of Fleur Lombard remains deeply felt within Avon Fire & Rescue Service and within the community she served so selflessly. While we hope no one will ever face such a loss again, it is our duty to remember and to express our deep gratitude.”
The fire service added: “Avon Fire & Rescue Service remains steadfast in its commitment to remembering those who have given everything in the line of duty. Fleur’s legacy will continue to inspire current and future generations of firefighters, ensuring that her courage and selflessness are never forgotten.
“Following Fleur’s tragic death, a trust fund was set up as a fitting tribute to her bravery, courage, dedication, and professionalism. The Fleur Lombard Bursary aims to keep Fleur’s values alive, helping others to progress their careers in the fire and rescue service, find out more on our website: Fleur Lombard Bursary – Avon Fire and Rescue Service.”
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