THE second-in-command of Essex County Fire and Rescue Service has retired suddenly following allegations of gross misconduct.

It is believed the departure of Gordon Hunter, the deputy chief fire officer, is linked to claims compromising photographs and videos had been discovered and amid concerns over his general behaviour.

The service released a statement confirming his immediate retirement, just hours after telling this newspaper he had been suspended.

He was relieved of all duties yesterday and ordered not to contact anyone within the service.

By retiring, Mr Hunter will not face an internal investigation and it is understood he will still be granted employment and pension privileges previously agreed.

In the earlier statement yesterday, chief fire officer David Johnson said: “Deputy chief fire officer Gordon Hunter has been suspended following serious allegations of gross misconduct.

“The allegations relate to inappropriate conduct at odds with the service’s high standards of values and behaviours, particularly in light of his seniority.

“Interim management arrangements are already in place, with assistant chief fire officers Dave Bill and Gary Fleming being given responsibility for operations and community safety and resilience, respectively.

“Suspension is a neutral act that allows an independent investigation to be conducted fairly and without prejudice.”

On Wednesday senior fire service staff were told Mr Hunter was on long-term sick leave.

Staff were told not to make contact with him and that he should not be contacting them.

But last night a statement was put on the fire service’s website, which read: “Deputy chief fire officer Gordon Hunter has tonight retired from Essex County Fire and Rescue Service after almost 30 years.

“The service can confirm there are no outstanding investigations against former DCFO Hunter.

“The service will be making no further statements on this matter.”

Mr Hunter was responsible for operational response, community commands, control and civil contingencies.

He took up the role of joint second-in-command in January 2010.

During his time with the service he has held several posts, including station officer at Orsett and Grays fire stations and community commander for Basildon and Castle Point.

Mr Hunter declined to comment.