On August Bank Holiday Monday, a crew took 240FLM down into the Garden of England to support the Kent Firefighting Museum event in the beautiful village of Ash close to Sevenoaks.
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Tucked away behind the Woodlands garden Centre lies this little gem of a museum which has established itself over several decades and contains detailed displays of historic and modern fire fighting equipment and memorabilia associated with the Kent Fire Brigade.
Interestingly, it also contains an education centre which is used to advance education for the public benefit, on the subject of fire, fire safety and firefighting in Kent, through the museum and learning resources.

Funded by exclusively public donations and run and maintained by a dedicated group of volunteers, we were delighted to add our weight to their efforts on the day. 

Visitors to the garden centre were astonished to see our turntable ladder at full extension as they arrived for compost and plants and many were tempted to come over for a chat and look.
 
Another thoroughly enjoyable day.
 
Images used to illustrate this article are copyright to the 240FLM TL Preservation Group and no unauthorised copying or reproduction is permitted.

​After 62 years of almost uninterrupted use, 240FLM, as you would expect, was in need of a little “TLC”!  During the early part of this year, it was becoming clear that the hydraulic hoses, of which there are many, were on the whole starting to show their age as was the now very smelly and loud exhaust system that runs from under the engine cover, inside the front cab, down through the myriad of mechanical parts and arrives under the front offside of the appliance, site of the silencer box.
As a group, we always knew this day would eventually arrive so the hunt recently started to locate companies, reasonably near Romford, professional, clearly experienced enough to trust with our old girl and at the right price.
For the hydraulic hoses, our search landed at a lovely little company down in sunny Essex, not far from Southend, home of the Kurzal, Ice Cream and the longest pier in the UK!
And so it was that on a bright, sunny and very hot August day, 240FLM was handed over to Leigh Baxter Hydraulics and into the capable hands of our assigned engineers, Nick & Jordan at a farm very near to Southend for the work to be undertaken.
Leigh Baxter have over 100 years of combined experience and were formed in 1977 so they clearly know their business.
The initial works could only include the multitude of hoses situated within the fulcrum frame upon which the ladder sections are bolted and the whole assembly then sits on the top of the chassis and bodywork. A daunting task indeed given that little space exists in the fulcrum frame and grazed knuckles must be a regular occurrence.  There are a variety of hydraulic hoses located underneath the appliance mainly supplying the oil to the ladder rams and turntable control systems which are also scheduled for replacement, however, with several imminent commitments, there was only sufficient time to replace the ones “up top”. The remainder will be replaced once the groups busy schedule calms down in a few weeks.
As will be evident from the photos, the farmyard provided many benefits for the work, easy access, plenty of space, haybales to serve as props which being soft would alleviate any risk of damage to the underside of the main ladder section and, no one around to hear the swearing when spanners were dropped or knuckles grazed.!
 Further into August and after a couple of pre booked commitments, the next costly replacement element, the exhaust system. It is the original and also now beyond repair.  This time, our search arrived, also in Essex, at the friendly little company, Hayward Scott in Basildon.
After a full discussion and assessment by Ian, the owner of Hayward Scott, it was agreed that the job would be theirs. The brief, a full, stainless steel replacement complete system from the engine to the final mounting point under the front of the appliance and also to be made to look as close as possible like the original to maintain the authenticity of 240FLM.
The pictures do in fact tell the story far better than words so on behalf of the group, we would like to say a huge thankyou to both Leigh Baxter Hydraulics and Hayward Scott Fabrication for their superb skill and professionalism and understanding of what we are about.
 
Since the formation of our little group in 2014, about 50% of the membership has continued to pay a small monthly subscription, this subscription, and a notable few large donations, have enabled us to undertake these essential maintenance tasks. The group were absolutely determined that 240FLM WOULD be maintained irrespective of the costs and to all those who have, and continue to contribute, the results are here to be seen. Your contributions have enabled us to spend just over £4,300 on these essential maintenance items.
In closing, if you are interested in getting involved and are either serving or retired LFB and would be willing to contribute less than the cost of a “Big Mac Meal” per month, why not get in touch. We don’t bite, we all speak the same old rubbish from round the mess table and are all getting older, rapidly!  Young firefighting blood is very welcome, especially if you drive HGV’s and fancy the challenge of driving an iconic vehicle, and a challenge it is!

Please note that all images are copyright protected to the 240FLM TL Preservation Group.

On Saturday 8th August, we were delighted to offer “Over the border” support to our friends in the Essex Fire & Rescue Service by popping down to participate at Harlow Fire station and their 2026 open day.
 
The day, well supported by visitors, family and friends was sun-kissed and hot but that didn’t stop the 240FLM crew from getting to work and putting on a fine demonstration of its capabilities.
Also on hand was a delicious selection of “Donuts and ice cream, essential offerings for these events.
In the appliance room was a nice display of Fire Brigade related equipment, uniforms and memorabilia for the crowds to enjoy.
 
Another fun filled and very enjoyable day with a relatively short drive back to Romford.
 
Images used are copyright and used with the permissions of Harlow Fire Station and P Cowland.

On an extremely hot and taxing Tuesday 4th August 2026, we were proud to have been asked to carry the late, Divisional Officer John “Noddy” Norris on his final shout.
John had joined the London Fire Brigade in 1965 as a Junior Fireman and spent 26 years serving the Capitol before retiring in 1991. During that time, John would have witnessed enormous changes in the structure and systems of the Brigade.
John had served the majority of his career within the original A Division of the LFB and spent time at some very busy stations, notably A21 Paddington, A24 Soho, A28 Kensington and the now closed A26 Knightsbridge. Now that is some CV!
He rose steadily through the ranks finally ending his career at the rank of Divisional Officer (1).
John had spent a huge amount of time during his “off duty” periods, and latterly after retirement, as a founder, and dedicated member of “The Worshipful Company of Firefighters”, an organisation that affirms continuity with the traditions of the City of London while also speaking to the modern contribution of firefighters, fire engineers, fire safety professionals, rescue specialists, military partners, paramedics and all those connected with protection of life, property and community resilience.
In their own words: “They exist to promote the development and advancement of firefighting, fire prevention, life safety, and the exchange of knowledge across the profession.”
Worthy causes indeed.
During his long, 36-year membership of the company, John rose to become the” Beadle” of the organisation stepping down from that role in 2024.
The funeral service which took place at the Bluebell Crematorium, Halstead, Sevenoaks in Kent was attended by many former colleagues, family and friends as well as formal salutations from the London Fire Brigade - Retired Members Association and The Worshipful Company of Firefighters.
 
Thankyou John for your lifetime of service.

Readers and viewers are reminded that all images used here are subject to current UK copyright laws. No unauthorised reproductionj is permitted.

Wednesday 10th June 2026 and 240FLM once again headed to South East London to undertake another sad duty as we were privileged to have been asked to carry the late, Fireman Michael (Mick) Meech on his last shout.
On the day, 240FLM made its way to the Funeral directors, also in Eltham, to collect Mick before proceeding to the family home. With the cortege now formed, 240FLM led the way past Eltham Fire Station where the on-duty watch paid it respects by forming a parade outside the station as Mick passed by.

Finally, heading to the last destination at Eltham Crematorium where a large gathering of family, friends and former colleagues were waiting, the cortege, on the final approach to the service, were met by the standard bearer of the LFB Retired Members Association who took up position and led the way.

Mick had been a keen member and had gone on many of the organised trips that the association arrange.
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In his 25-year career, Mick, a most likeable and reliable fireman, had made many friends having served at West Norwood, Eltham, Shooters Hill and Deptford, during that career, he gained the respect of his colleagues at all of these stations.
As ever, we salute you and bid and farewell to an old colleague and say “Stand down sir, your duty is done.”


Please note that all images are copyright protected to the photographers, P Cowland. S Houston & P Wing
No unauthorised use or reproduction is permitted.

On Friday 5th June, the group were once again proud to have been able to support the family and friends of the late, London Fireman Peter Ryan. LFB retired, at his funeral which took place at Thames View Crematorium, near Gravesend in Kent.
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It had been Peter’s long- term wish to be carried in the traditional way on his last shout on the deck of a Turntable Ladder and none were more fitting than 240FLM which Peter may well have seen during his service in London. 

On arrival at the venue, it became apparent that with the low height of the entrance canopy, getting under was going to be a tight squeeze, however, with literally millimetres to spare, 240FLM once again arrived with expert handling and care, but a few deep breathes were needed!

Please note that the images used to illustrate this article are copyright protected to the photographers and no unauthorised copying or reproduction is permitted. Images courtesy of S Houston.

On Thursday 4th June, amidst persistant rain and heavy cloud cover, the group were delighted to be able to participate at the wedding of London Firefighter Ray West to the lovely Michelle by transporting the bride and her children to the wedding venue at Braintree Town Hall. Essex.
Following the wedding ceremony and the traditional bride and groom walk out, met with an with appropriate Guard of Honour with raised axes, Ray and Michelle were both transported safely for a lovely photo session at the public gardens in Braintree and then finally on to the White Hart Pub for the reception.

By sheer coincidence, just as the photo session was coming to a close, a serious fire broke out adjacent to the reception venue at the White Hart which required the attendance of 3 appliances from Essex Fire & Rescue. We are pleased to report that the Brigade did not require our services although we could have assisted if required, or perhaps not at our ages!

Despite the appliance being thoroughly cleaned and polished at the start of the day, the poor weather necessitated an urgent pit stop at Braintree Fire Station to give 240FLM another clean before embarking the bride and her family.
However, all went smoothly and the day was a wonderful celebration.

​We wish Michelle and Ray a lifetime of happiness and prosperity.
 
Please note that the images used to illustrate this article are copyright protected to the photographers and no unauthorised copying or reproduction is permitted.
Images courtesy of S Houston & R West.

​The group were proud to have been able to support the family and friends of the Late, Fm Peter Woodford, formally of Kent Fire & Rescue Service (Brigade) by carrying him on his last shout on Wednesday 27th May 2026.

Peter had served at both Strood & Medway Fire Stations.,

The service took place at the Garden Of England Crematorium at Sittingbourne in Kent and Peter was carried in the traditional way from Rainham, Kent.
Images used here are subject to current UK Copyright laws and no unauthorised reproduction or copying is permitted. Pictures  courtesy of S Houston.

On Monday 18th May, 240FLM were proud to be able to provide “over the border” assistance to the Essex Fire Brigade Museum and carry retired Essex FB Sub Officer, Robert “Bob” Morrison on his final shout.
For a number of years, our group has had a close relationship with the team at the Essex Museum as they also maintain and run an old Merryweather Turntable ladder which is often used for events like this. Due to their appliance currently being “off the run” for mechanical repairs, we were approached to undertake this sad event.
Bob had formerly been a member of the London Fire Brigade having originally joined the LFB in 1965 and on completion of training was posted to East Ham Fire station. He subsequently transferred to the Essex Fire Brigade in 1969.
Throughout his career, “Bob” had gained a formidable reputation as a really nice man but also as a singer having performed with some extremely well known big bands.
Being a former MOD, from the 1960’s, he had embraced the scooters that were the cornerstone of the movement of the time, so it was a fitting tribute to him that as well as fire appliances that he was accompanied by, 3 scooter “ outriders” ensured that the cortege moved seamlessly on its journey.
The service took place at Maldon in Essex and the cortege was accompanied by another vintage Essex fire appliance.  On the journey, the cortege passed by a guard of honour which was on parade outside South Woodham Ferrers fire station, a station well known to bob as he had served there.
In a fitting and touching moment, grandson Albert joined the crew of 240FLM to accompany Bob on his journey.

You are courteously reminded that no unathorised copying or reproduction of the images is permitted. Images subject to UK Copyright laws applicable. Images courtesy of T Barnwell and A Perks.

On Monday 20th April 2026, 240FLM was proud to have been asked to support the funeral of retired London Fireman, Robert (Bob) Tibble which took place at the Kemnal Park Crematorium, Sidcup, Kent.
Bob had spent his fire service career serving at Euston and then later at Brixton, Lambeth and West Norwood.


RIP Bob, you may stand down sir as your service is done.
 
 
You are courteously reminded that any images used to illustrate this article are subject to current UK Copyright laws and no unauthorised reproduction is permitted. Images courtesy of S Houston

​On Thursday 16th April, 240FLM was once again “on duty” to participate in the funeral of retired LFB fireman, Roy Todd.
A sad day for all of Roy’s family, friends and ex colleagues who were in attendance at the services at Elstow and then Bedford.
Unfortunately, 240FLM suffered a slight mechanical problem whilst preparing to carry Roy on his last “shout” but with a hearse on standby, the procession was quickly able to proceed. With great fortune, the mechanical issue was resolved and 240FLM was able to complete its commitment.
It is suggested by Roy’s family, that he would have laughed at this little problem on such a special day, this did lighten our mood thankfully as we NEVER like failing in our duties.
Roy had mainly seen service over his career in the former, C Division in North and North East London and served at Kingsland rd, Kentish Town, Clerkenwell and Islington and will be remembered as a kind and caring man.
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On Tuesday 17th March, 240FLM took a familiar route down to Essex to carry the late Fireman Lennie Ringshaw on his final shout. Lennie had served in the LFB for his entire service and spent the majority of his time at Hornchurch Fire Station after periods spent at Plaistow and formally, East Ham in the east of the Capital.
Lennie was an extremely popular fireman, always smiling despite the usual life adversities and gathered a number of nicknames during his career. “ Billy Sollocks”  or “Triple L” being just 2.
White Watch was Lennies chosen watch for his career and he built up a formidable reputation as a snooker player, often challenging watch colleagues to a game deep into a night shift!
On a bright, dry, sunny day, Lennie was carried in the traditional way on the back of 240FLM from Grays in Essex to his final destination in South Ockenden. Arriving at the service, Lennie was met by a huge turnout of family, friends and many of his former colleagues from the London Fire Brigade who wanted to say farewell one last time.
The LFB Retired Members Association flag stood as tribute to a wonderful man, father, husband and fireman who will be greatly missed.
 
RIP Lennie.
 
You are courteously reminded that no unauthorised copying or reproduction is permitted. Images are subject to current UK Copyright laws. Images courtesy of Ivan Barefield, Trevor Barnwell and Dave Singleton.

The group were proud to have been tasked to carry the late, Fireman George Tinsley ,on his final shout on the 9th February 2026.
George was carried in the traditional way, on the back of 240FLM, to his final service at Woolensbrook Cemetery, Hoddesdon, Herts where he was received by family and friends.
George had joined the London Fire Brigade in the early 1970’s and, on completion of his training at Southwark, was posted to, and remained at C29 Kentish Town fire station. (now A43) on the Blue watch for his full career.
Although George never rose through the ranks, he did secure a fine reputation as an excellent and reliable “mess manager”, a job not for the faint hearted.
 
RIP George and we were pleased to have been able to support your family at this sad time.


Readers are politely reminded that all images used here are subject to UK Copyright laws and no unauthorised copying or reproduction is permitted. Images courtesy of P Wood.

240FLM was proud to have been asked to attend the funeral of former Peckham firefighter, Paul Dolan, in Beckenham on Friday 6th February 2026. Paul had joined the Brigade in 1983 and on completion of his training, was posted to and remained at B28 Peckham Fire Station.
Paul served at Peckham before leaving for pastures new in the haulage industry, however, the phrase "Once a fireman- always a Fireman” definitely applied to Paul who was supremely proud of his service.

The cortege met at Beckenham Rugby Club where it seemed every player past and present were waiting to see him leave his beloved club and go on his final shout to Beckenham Crematorium.

You are courteously reminded that images used here are subject to UK copyright laws and no unauthorised copying or reproduction is permitted. Images courtesy of G Quinnel.

On the 17th December 2025, 240FLM made its way north to the County of Norfolk to participate in the celebration of life for Fireman Ray Shoobridge who passed away recently.
Ray had joined the London Fire Brigade in April 1979 and had served at Tottenham and Edmonton fire stations.
Ray was a Turntable Ladder operator, and, as 240FLM had been stationed at Tottenham on several occasions as a spare, there is a a high degree of possibility Ray actually drove the appliance before it was finally decommissioned in Mid 1981.

During his service, Ray had captained both rugby and football teams for Edmonton fire station

In a show of solidarity, members of the duty watch at Dereham Fire Station formed a guard of honour as the cortege passed their station, a touching moment.
At the ceremony, Ray’s old watch comrades and colleagues acted as the pall bearers and the subsequent readings by Rays family and ex colleague Dave Mills, provided the gathered mourners with an honest picture of a very popular man.


You are courteously reminded that images used here are subject to current UK copyright laws and that no unauthrised copying or reproduction is permitted. Images courtesy of Paul Wood.

In the final weeks of 2025, 240FLM and crew were honoured and privileged to carry serving London Firefighter, Gary Miller on his last shout. Gary had been attached to London Fire Brigade G27 North Kensington Fire Station in Ladbroke Grove, West London before passing.
Under the guidance of the funeral directors, Rowland Brothers of Croydon, the appliance and crew made their way to St Mary and St John the Devine church in Balham in South West London for the service where they were met by a significant LFB Guard of Honour.
The London Fire Brigade Retired Members Association Standard Bearer was in attendance as well as both of the pumping appliances from North Kensington.
Following the church service, our appliance carried Gary to his final resting place at Croydon Cemetery.
The 240FLM TL Preservation Group consider it an honour to have been able to participate in the sad but very respectful event.


Please note that all images are copyright protected to the photographers, Aaron Wolfries-Miller, Shaun Peters, Paul Wing and Gary Quinnell. No unauthorised use or reproduction is permitted.

A36 Southgate Fire Station (Formally A2/J28) in North London held one of their annual RMA (Retired Members Association) “lamp swinging” reunions on Saturday 15th December which was handsomely attended.

The obligatory cheese and onion rolls were provided (other fillings were available) along with a feast of sweet treats, gallons of tea and coffee and a whole heap of memories were subsequently chewed over.
In attendance for the day was a 1967 Dennis F106 Pumping appliance, brought along by its owner, Adam Stevens` and this was joined in the yard by the TL240 group and their 1964 AEC/Merryweather Turntable Ladder.

London’s Burning actor Michael Garner (Poison Pearce) also popped in to give his support for the day.

Organiser Darren Shirley from Southgate green watch commented "The Retirees Day was absolutely amazing at Southgate for Firefighters who haven't seen each other for many years. The reminiscing and swinging of the lamp was so nice to see and watching them all enjoying each other's company was heartwarming”.
Images used to illustrate this article are subject to UK Copyright laws, you are reminded that no unauthorised reproductionj is permitted.  Images courtesy of Paul Wood.

​On Friday 21st November 2025, the 240FLM Preservation group was proud to have been requested to attend the funeral of retired LFB Station Officer Richard Todd.
Richard was carried on his final shout on our appliance from the Funeral Directors in Brentwood, Essex, via his house, and then on to Bentley Crematorium at Pilgrims Hatch, also in Essex
Richards 26-year career had seen him serve at Dagenham, Silvertown and Shoreditch fire stations before heading into the Training department.
His family very much appreciated our attendance, particularly as the request had been made at very short notice.


You are courteously reminded that no unauthorised copying or reproduction of the images is permitted. Copyright remains with the original photographer.
​S Houston.

Sunday 28th September 2025 and 240 FLM once again made its way down to SE Essex and the annual "Visit the Vulcan Day" at Southend Airport.
Leaving Romford just before 0800, the team had a clear run around the Gallows Corner Diversion which has been causing somewhat of a challenge to all drivers, particularly on weekdays!
On arrival the appliance was sited by the organisers next to the main hanger, and for a change, it was decided to have the ladders extended.
A frantic phone call quickly arrived at the organisers office from Air Traffic Control, saying the were not happy with the "crane", although it was below the height of the hanger roof.
The ladders were quickly brought down and housed and happiness and calm returned to the event.
A steady stream of people enjoyed the static displays, the Vulcan Bomber and the other preserved vehicles on show, and the weather remained dry !!
The organisers were extremely grateful and extended an immediate invitation to return again next year!.

Photos used here are subject to UK Copyright laws and we respectfully ask that there is no unauthorised copying or reproduction. 

240FLM and crew made their way West from Romford to A33/J25 Tottenham Fire Station to add support to their well organised “Open Day”. This year, the Red Watch had been selected to organise it – and they did a grand job, actually worrying if they would be able to get all the exhibits and stalls into the station yard.

Fear not, they had it in hand. After being one of the last to arrive, 240FLM was expertly inched into position using the rear gear and negotiating many obstacles along the way. A manoeuvre which involved reversing into the first bay and entering the yard from the middle bay.
Driver Steve was in no doubt it was all in a day’s work.!

Several vintage appliances which spent time at Tottenham over the years were in attendance.
Ex Middlesex Fire Brigade Turntable ladder,  22ML with current owner, Matt Holmes, definitely spent several shifts at Tottenham, CBY1, which after its transfer from Croydon Fire Brigade into London in 1965 would possibly have seen service at Tottenham as a spare and  our own, 240FLM, which we have photographic records of as being “ on the run” as a spare at Tottenham during the early 1980’s.
To complete the arial appliance line up was the current iteration of Turntable ladders, based at A33 Tottenham, the superb Magirus M32L-AS units mounted on Scania L360 chassis with a reach of 32 metres. Four TLs in one place is definitely an unusual line up!

Also on parade was a Dennis F106 pumping appliance, registration number SMH325F which may also have seen service there as a spare during the 1970’s and early 80’s and to complete the assembly of vintage appliances was the well known LCC LFB Emergency tender, OXT999, a regular and favourite on the preservation circuit.
The final “modern” appliances on show to the crowds was the A34 Edmonton Fire Station Mercedes Benz Atego Fire Rescue unit which had an awful lot of current rescue equipment to show to eager viewers.
The addition of exhibits and participation by The London Fire Brigade cadets, Brigade Control Room staff, Animal Welfare dog, and the Firefighters Charity ensured there was something of interest for all the many visitors.
The Mayor of Haringey, Councillor Ahmed Mahbub, spent time talking to the crew of 240FLM and had his photo taken beside the appliance. He genuinely seems fascinated by the appliance and its history.

The only concern during the day was the DJ which had been organised let the event down the day before and which left the station scrabbling around for a replacement.  An emergency call was made to Beckenham Firefighter/singer Jake Shortall who travelled over to Tottenham to perform one of his sets. He truly has an amazing voice. Remember that name!

​A thoroughly enjoyable day which the group were pleased to have supported.

Please note: You are respectfully reminded that all the images used here are subject to standard UK copyright laws and no copying or reproduction should take place without the express permission of the 240FLM TL preservation Group and individual photographers.
Paul Wing & Paul Wood.

On Sunday June 22nd 240FLM and crew made its way across North London to attend Stoke Newington fire stations annual open day, an event designed to embrace the 225th anniversary of a key  figure in the history of the London Fire Brigade.

James Braidwood had been instrumental in the development of the 19th Century London Fire Engine Establishment, the forerunner of today’s London Fire Brigade. In 1833, James left his home town of Edinburgh where he has been working as the Master of Fire Engines at the worlds first municipal fire brigade, a position he held aged 24, to become the Superintendant of the London Fire Engine Establishment.

The 22nd June is also synonymous as it was the day in 1861 that James was killed whilst leading his men during fire fighting operations in Tooley Street. London SE1. Braidwood died in the Tooley Street fire, located near London Bridge Station, when a collapsing wall crushed him several hours after the fire began, It took two days to recover his body.
His heroism led to a massive funeral on 29 June 1861 in which the funeral cortege stretched 1.5 miles (2.4 km) behind the hearse, a public spectacle almost equal to the fire itself. The fire, which continued to burn for a fortnight, caused damage valued at £2,000,000, equivalent to almost half a million pounds at today’s rate - and was considered the worst fire since the Great Fire of London in 1666.
Braidwood is buried in Abney Park cemetery, next door to Stoke Newington Fire Station. The grave lies on a path edge towards the south, rendering it relatively easy to see in this congested and overgrown cemetery. His wife, Mary Ann Jane Braidwood (1806–1871) was buried with him. He was buried near his stepson, also a fireman, who had died six years earlier.
The grave was long lost to public view, however, in 1981, and following much research by the then Stoke Newington Fire Station White Watch Station Officer, Liam Hackett, the precise location of the grave was found. Hackett then spent the rest of the summer clearing the site and restoring the lettering on the monument.
The 240FLM group were invited to provide a representative to join the memorial service beside Braidwood’s grave prior to the doors opening for the station open day.
Retired Stoke Newington Sub Officer and 240FLM treasurer Trevor Barnwell, joined the Brigades senior officers, relatives of James Braidwood and many friends and supporters at the graveside. Those present included Diana Hamilton-Jones who is Braidwood’s great, great, great, grand-daughter and ex Stoke Newington fire station Station Officer Liam Hackett.
A flame coloured rose was laid on behalf of the 240FLM group and following the short service, the assembled group of guests then made their way back the short distance to the fire station where the open day had already begun.
240FLM ladders were raised on the station forecourt, much to the glee of many hundreds of visitors.
The publics enjoyment (and fascination at how well preserved our appliance is) was clear to see, many people wishing to engage with the crew to learn more.
A wonderful day of commemoration, celebration and participation of which the group were proud to have been a part of.


Images used to illustrate this article are copyright protected to Paul Wood. No unauthrised reproduction or copying is permitted without prior approval. Thankyou

The group were delighted to be invited back to Southend Airport to support the preservation team at their latest " Visit the Vulcan" day. The event, one of several held during the year, is an opportunity to get up close to this historic aircraft and witness the sheer scale of the majestic flying machine which provided UK security and war fighting provision for many decades. 

Also supporting the event was a fine selection of vintage vehicles including fire appliances as well as current front line fire fighting appliances.  The crew of 240FLM were well looked after by the staff and towards the end of the day were given priveleged access to the cockpit area of the aircraft, a real eye opening experience.

Many thanks for a  fun and interesting day. 
​
Please note that images used here are subject to UK copyright laws and no unauthorised copying or reproduction is permitted. Images courtesy of A J Perks.

On the 17th April 2025, the group were proud to have been able to lead the funeral cortege for the late Station Officer Brian Sturt on his final journey from his old fire station in Southgate, North London to his funeral ceremony at the New Southgate Cemetery just a short distance away, and, a place that Brian would been familiar with.

Upon departure   from Southgate, a guard of honour of serving firefighters paraded outside the fire station in a sign of respect for this fine and courageous officer.
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Brian had seen service in both the Middlesex Fire Brigade, where he had originally undertaken his basic training at Finchley TC in 1961 and then continued his service into the newly formed London Fire Brigade on April 1st 1965 following the amalgamation of several Brigades located around and in the Capital.  Brian subsequently went on to serve at J26 Hornsey, J28 Southgate, A25 Westminster and J22 Chingford rising to the rank of Station Officer before his retirement in 1985.
 

During his career Brian received two commendations for bravery.
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On the 17th February 1978, Station Officer Brian Sturt of Southgate Fire Station attempted to rescue a student from a frozen lake in Trent Park Teachers Training College, Trent Park in Enfield.
He was subsequently awarded the Royal Humane Society`s Testimonial on Vellum for his actions at this special service call.
 
In June 1982, Station Officer Brian Sturt, based at Hornsey fire station, received a Chief Officer's Letter of Congratulation for his actions at the special service incidents at Cranbrook Park, Wood Green.
A woman with a history of mental illness was threatening to jump from the roof of a house. Having gained access to the roof, in the most appalling weather conditions, Station Officer Sturt spent some 30 minutes talking the woman in coming down with him to the safety of the ground. She was in a trance like state throughout the ordeal and was unable to help herself or her rescuers. When finally on the ground and handed over to the police she became extremely violent and was removed to hospital.
You are courteously reminded that all images used to illustrate this article are subject to UK Copyright laws. No unauthorised copying or reproduction is therefore permitted. Images courtesy of P Wood.

On Friday March 28th 2025  240FLM made the deeply sad journey around London to carry the late Firefighter, Steve Hartigan, on his final shout to his service at the Bluebell Crematorium, Halstead near Sevenoaks in Kent.

The group had been priveleged to attend Steve's Wedding to Louise in Whitstable last May so today was doubly sad remembering the happiness of that day last year. At that time, Steve was still serving in the London Fire Brigade but had been diagnosed with a terminal illness.

Rowland Brothers funeral directors in West Wickham Kent had been selected for the meeting point at which Steve would be carefully transferred onto 240FLM along with flowers and his fire helmet which carried his FRU (Fire Rescue Unit) qualification.
Steves wife Louise, along with his young son and daughter, rode on board 240FLM on the journey to the final destination and the waiting guard of honour.

The vehicle procession consisted of 240FLM (with the Undertaker acting as officer in charge), a Fire Rescue Unit along with two pumps (Lewisham and Chelsea) all with their blue lights on. The convoy was preceeded by two police motorcycle outriders acting as escorts who supported us at traffic lights and roundabouts.

On arrival at the crematorium, the courtege were met with a splendid and substantial guard of honour which lined both sides of the access road and stretched from the main road up the hill to the crematorium building, this wonderful parade was made up from all ranks of the LFB, a fitting tribute to a fine firefighter.

Steven was carried into the chapel by members of his family closely followed by his wife and children.
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Steven, joining the the Brigade in 1995, had served at Chelsea, Millwall and Lewisham during his career.

Viewers are politely reminded that the images used here are subject to UK Copyright law and no unauthorised copying or reproduction is permitted. Images courtesy of T Barnwell and P Wood.