DISMISSED Essex fire chief David Johnson is considering legal action against his former employers. 

Mr Johnson was publicly fired after a two-year investigation into alleged misconduct or gross misconduct.

It had been previously been understood there was no evidence to support ten claims made against him.

But Essex Fire Authority bosses sacked him with immediate effect yesterday following a two-year investigation.

Today, a statement from the Fire Officers’ Association said: "We are unable to comment on the details of the case brought against Mr Johnson by the Essex Fire and Rescue Authority as David is currently considering his options for the future including the prospects for defending his position via the legal system.

"We are, however, disappointed at the outcome of the internal disciplinary process and very concerned that it has taken so long for the authority to consider this case.

"The last couple of years have been very difficult for David and his family to the extent that his health has suffered considerably as a result of his long-term suspension from duty.

"Since the Fire and Rescue Authority appears to consider that there is compelling evidence of misconduct warranting dismissal it is extremely difficult to understand why it has taken some two years to reach this point."

Mr Johnson was initially granted sick leave in June 2014 after earning about £225,000 for three months’ work.

In April 2015 he tried to return but was instantly suspended despite "vehemently" denying the allegations against him.

The association initially wrote to Essex Fire Authority in early 2016, expressing concern over the length of time Mr Johnson had been suspended and on how the investigation was being carried out.

But it says no response was ever received.

Mr Johnson's suspension is thought to have cost Essex taxpayers about £1,000,000.