Ladders Gallery

LFDCA-LFB Vintage fire engine in a Clapham street

A former Middlesex Fire Brigade pump escape which was visiting Clapham fire station. Middlesex was absorbed into the enlarged London Fire Brigade in 1965 with the creation of the Greater London Council. This Dennis dual-purpose appliance was restored by fire service enthusiasts and used at displays and open days.. Here it is seen in a Clapham street with the 50 foot escape ladder slipped from the rear of the engine

© London Fire Brigade / Mary Evans Picture Library

LCC-LFB battery-electric pump-escape at Southwark

An early electric wheeled escape ladder vehicle, Cedes battery-driven pump/50ft escape, based at Bow fire station, seen here in the drill yard at Southwark Headquarters. Batteries stowed under the bonnet added 2.5 tons to the total vehicle weight. Although battery power did not last long in the London Fire Brigade, the emerging shape of the early 20th century fire engine is clearly visible

© London Fire Brigade / Mary Evans Picture Library

GLC-LFB - Turntable Ladder at Plaistow

The GLC-LFB was created on 1 April 1965. A series of photos was commissioned of each type of fire engine, either within or absorbed into the enlarged London Fire Brigade. A Metz turntable ladder from Plaistow fire station ( L30) is seen here, mounted on a Dennis-Rolls Royce petrol engine appliance. This appliance was from Essex fire brigade, parts of which were absorbed into the London Fire Brigade in 1965

© London Fire Brigade / Mary Evans Picture Library