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.
​

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.

At the beginning of November 2024, and following another busy period of activities for the appliance and its crews, a number of mechanical, equipment and electrical issues began to appear and it soon became apparent that a deep investigation would be necessary to ensure that 240FLM remained safe, legal and reliable as we head towards another year of service, in fact, it will be its 61st year!
Odd noises had been heard coming from the engine compartment and the road horn had ceased to work, this triggered an initial inspection and the opportunity to carry out a thorough health check. As a result, 240FLM was, by necessity, taken “Off the run” whilst the inspections and repairs were instigated.
As part of the vehicle routine maintenance, the braking system is monitored closely and, although no obvious problems were apparent whist driving, once a visual inspection of the system was available with the road wheels off, it became apparent that the air brake chambers on either side were looking decidedly poor, they are probably the originals, and as such, replacement new, or fully serviced originals would need to be refitted. As is the norm with vintage vehicles, some parts just are not readily available “off the shelf”, this was the case for the air brake chambers. However, it will not come as a surprise that in the UK, there is a hidden world of small businesses specialising in such obscure, rare or replacement items and this was the case for these parts.
In deepest Essex, West Horndon to be precise, can be found such a company. No new parts are available now, but after a few days the call came in to say that our originals had been completely overhauled and returned to “as new” condition and able to be safely refitted to 240FLM where we anticipate many more years of service.
Whilst dealing with the brakes, a decision was made to have the front brake shoes relined. They were getting quite low on available friction material, therefore, as with the chambers, the hunt began for a company who could help. This time a trip to Arlesey near Letchworth in Hertfordshire was required and in the blink of an eye, new linings were skilfully fitted and prepared ready for the shoes to be refitted.
During the process of servicing the front brakes, the opportunity was taken to have a really good close look at all the other hidden areas, rarely seen, and difficult to access. The clutch slave cylinder was seen to have a slight fluid leak into its protective rubber “boot”. Remarkably a new one was found, sadly however, it was found to have just a slightly longer operating arm so several hours of work, and sweat, was required to merge the old and new units into a useable and functioning item which has now been refitted.
With all the brake and clutch parts refitted, one last inspection has found a slight leak on the exhaust pipe which will need to be rectified and the road horn problem addressed.
As the road horn had stopped working! It would be not be unreasonable to assume that this would be a relatively easy fix! Oh no, a vehicle of this age, and several previous owners, ensured that this seemingly simple job turned into a complete rewire of the horn circuit to get it working again, but at least we now know how its wired!
Sitting behind the rear cab and in its own enclosure is the on board “lightweight” fire pump, this pump is designed to pump water to the top (head) of the ladders when they are extended to allow water to be played onto a fire scene. The pump has its own starter motor with a button sited on the pump control panel. Over the years, this starter motor has been the source of a number of problems, often caused by water getting into it, and once again, it has failed. On removal it was found that the solenoid and surrounding coils were heavily corroded. So, once again, the hunt began for replacement parts, new or old! Astonishingly, although the starter for the fire pump is obsolete, once again, having the right “connections” proved invaluable and, thanks to a considerate and supportive official at the original equipment manufacturers digging deep into his stores, we have been able to source a brand-new solenoid/ contact assembly and a repair kit of all of the small parts. It goes without saying that these scarce parts are not cheap, however, without them we cannot maintain the fully operational status of the appliance, something we pledged right at the outset in November 2014
Finally, the vehicle is equipped with 2 original wheel “chocks” designed to sit either side of the rear wheels when the appliance is at work. Our 60 years old original pair, kindly donated to the group, were pretty much beyond repair and likely to fall apart without warning.
Once again, we turned to our list of contacts and revisited a fine professional joiner who has turned out 2 beautiful new hardwood replacements which are just in the process of being rebuilt with all the original metal fittings and painted black as per the originals.
All this work has required the dedication and commitment of just 2 people over 2 months and between them they have put in an incredible amount of time and effort to maintain 240FLM to the highest standard and to ensure we can continue to fulfil our commitment to providing a professional, respectful, traditional and trusted service when called upon.
 
Wishing all our followers and supporters a very happy, safe and peaceful new year and we look forward to meeting many of you on our travels in 2025.

Please note, all the images are copyright to Peter Weight and Trevor Barnwell, no unauthrised reproduction is permitted.
 

Today, December 20th 2024, we said farewell to one of our founder members, Michael (Mick) Gilbey. Mick, like many of the original members, was drawn to our embryonic group in late 2014 when he, along with 68 others, first saw the post about 240FLM being for sale and the desire to form a collective to purchase it, and subsequently restore it. Mick had been a “TL” operator in the LFB and would always refer to the control panel at the operators seat at the rear as “His Office”! Mick had spent the vast majority of his Fire Service career in the London Fire Brigade, both LCC and LFB after Initially joining the old West Ham Fire Brigade in 1964 following a stint as a Post Office motorcycle messenger. Mick served at both Stratford and Plaistow during which time  he had become very familiar with the Merryweather brand of appliances so his decision to become a founder member was absolutely no surprise.
Not content with serving his full term on station, after retirement, Mick re enrolled into the Brigades “Card Index” department where he remained until finally hanging up his boots and pens having served a total of 42 years.
Post retirement, Mick and his family moved to the South West of England, near to Yeovil in Somerset, which unfortunately prevented his from being a “hands on “ member, however, this did not stop him from providing valuable historical information about the “FLM” fleet and various appliance stowage variations. He was also keen to offer his services when a similar appliance was discovered not far from his home. A couple of messages to provide the details and what we needed and he was on his way to pester the owner about the possibility of purchasing some of the items we were missing. Although unsuccessful, he continued to hunt in the general area for anything we could use.
 
So we say goodbye to an old friend and colleague and offer our most sincere condolences to Micks family, friends and former colleagues.
 
Thank you Mick.
Stand down sir.


Please note images used in this article are subject to the usual group copyright policy. we politely ask that no reproduction takes place. 

​On Friday 8th November, the group were proud to be able to support the family at the funeral of former Middlesex, Buckinghamshire and finally London Fireman Dave Bradbury at the service which took place in the Isleworth area of West London.
240fLM had made its way around the M25 to meet another fine old restored and preserved appliance, 1 AMX, a former Middlesex Dennis F12 appliance which had spent many years at the old Staines Fire Station and which Dave had ridden many times.
240FLM, accompanied by 1 AMX, carried Dave to the South West Middlesex Crematorium at Hanworth, where, on arrival, a guard of honour of serving firefighters from Heston Fire Station, The London Fire Brigade and Retired Members Association Flag bearers, (a role which Dave had undertaken for many years), was on parade and accompanied by a large gathering of friends, family and former colleagues.
Dave started his Firefighting career during his National Service in the Army Fire Service. On leaving, he joined Middlesex Fire Brigade serving at Heston. On formation of the London Fire Brigade in 1965, he transferred briefly to Buckinghamshire Fire Brigade, before re joining the LFB back at Heston.

Please note that all images used to illustrate this article are copyright protected to P Wood and S Houston. UK Copyright laws are applicable. Thankyou.

By the time the engine had warmed up, the 240 team had arrived at their most recent destination to support members of Romford  and Hornchurch fire stations at a community event in support of the local 'Rom' skateboard park in Hornchurch.

The park, a Grade II listed skatepark and BMX ride facility, was built in 1978 and was originally designed by Adrian Rolt of G-Force, it is the most completely preserved purpose-built skatepark in England and is a well used, and enjoyed, local community facility.  In 2014 it became the first skatepark in Europe to achieve listed status.
The event was well supported and a sizable number of those showed a keen interest in the preserved vehicles on show.


Please note that images used here are copyright protected under UK law. No unauthrised reproduction is permitted.