Images Dated 2016 May

LCC-LFB Fire display at Brigade HQ Southwark

The London Fire Brigade encouraged, for very many years, a good public image by opening its doors to the public to special fire brigade displays. On Saturday afternoons, during the summer months, it was a regular feature to see displays at the Southwark Headquarters. As the picture shows it drew large, and frequently a boater-hatted, crowds. A motorised fire engine works two firefighting jets, while a turntable ladder is fully extended to the top of the drill tower. Where there was space to stand and watch the public took every opportunity to do so

© London Fire Brigade / Mary Evans Picture Library

LCC-LFB Dual purpose pump escape at Lambeth HQ

A Dennis F7 pump escape at Lambeth HQ, a classic postwar fire engine newly in service in London. It was powered by a 150 bhp 5.7 litre Rolls-Royce engine and served initially at Lambeth Fire Station, and latterly at other fire stations in SE London until it was retired in 1968. The F7 was a truly beautiful looking fire engine with a coach-built body and a fine road performance. Many F7s went into service in fire brigades throughout the UK

© London Fire Brigade / Mary Evans Picture Library

LCC-LFB Manchester Square fire station

Manchester Square fire station, Chiltern Street, W1, built 1888, now closed. By 1900 a number of new fire stations were being opened across London: many were substantial and elegant buildings. This was a district station supervising the work of 18 fire stations, also providing family accommodation for many firefighters on call. Now occupied by the Chiltern Firehouse restaurant (2014)

© London Fire Brigade / Mary Evans Picture Library