Fairs and Exhibitions (F&E), organisers of the ground-breaking Aviation Fire & Security International (AFSI) exhibition and conference to be held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, next year, has announced it has appointed one of the world's leading fire-fighting experts to serve as consultant to the project.

Neil Wallington, a former UK Chief Fire Officer, government advisor on fire service issues and international president of the Institution of Fire Engineers, is to assist in the compilation of a fire-related programme, which will be part of the dual-pronged focus of the AFSI conference, F&E said in a statement.

Wallington holds the Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct for his leadership in a major London hotel blaze incident and La Croix de Chevalier Est Accordee for services in the cause of international fire brigade relationships

"His AFSI conference input will be invaluable in ensuring that the event meets the specific needs of industry professionals in this rapidly evolving sector,"said Clive Richardson, chief executive, F&E.

AFSI will be held at the Airport Expo Dubai from April 27-29, 2003.