Three experts have been put forward to oversee a cultural change at Essex Fire Brigade.

A key recommendation of an Independent Review of Culture at Essex County Fire and Rescue Service (ECFRS) and Essex Fire Authority, conducted by Irene Lucas, was the creation of an expert advisory panel to steer through changes.

Ms Lucas has proposed Steve McGuirk, chief officer at Greater Manchester brigade and former chief of Cheshire’s fire service, and Natasha Edmunds, a human resources specialist currently at West Sussex County Council – including West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service – as two members of the panel.

A third member is set to be picked by trade unions under Ms Lucas’ proposals.

Ms Lucas has also put forward Sir Ken Knight, an independent consultant since leaving his role as chief fire and rescue adviser to the Government in 2013, to help from time to time.

Councillor Anthony Hedley, chairman of the Essex Fire Authority, said: “I am delighted Irene Lucas has come forward with these names. The review was a watershed in ECFRS’ history and we are determined to change the organisation for the better.

“The expert advisory panel has a crucial role to play in that endeavour and we want top quality advisors in place to help transform the organisation.”

The recommendations will go before the fire authority during its meeting on October 7, along with proposals from the review.