New Berkshire fire chief named
The current deputy will assume the top job
Royal Berkshire's fire and rescue service has named their next fire chief.
Mark Arkwell - who is the current deputy - will take on the role from next month.
Mr Arkwell has worked in the fire and rescue service for more than 26 years with Surrey and Royal Berkshire.
Proud
Speaking of his appointment, Mark said: “I am immensely proud to accept the role of Royal Berkshire’s next Chief Fire Officer.”
“It will be a great honour to lead a Service that is made up of dedicated public servants delivering their very best for our community. I am incredibly excited to lead the Service on the next step of its journey.
“I would like to record my thanks to the Service’s current Chief Fire Officer, Wayne Bowcock, who I have been privileged to work alongside for several years. I know that his time leading the Service will leave a lasting legacy.”
The appointment was ratified at the Fire Authority meeting on 10 February 2026.
Mark will assume his new role following the retirement of Wayne Bowcock in March 2026.