Strathclyde Fire & Rescue Preservation Group - Chairmans Report 2009
2009 A Year of Success
In the first year Strathclyde Fire & Rescue Preservation Group has been operating under our new re-branded format, I am pleased to report that in 2009 the Group has taken on a new focus and direction and has never been more pro active and dynamic. With an ever growing membership offering an increasingly diverse range of skills and expertise, the group has for the first time undertaken major restoration, preservation and conservation projects.
Attendance at Events
Over the year the Preservation Group attended over 80 events, ranging from local gala days, fêtes and Doors Open Days, to Fire Station open days across the entire Strathclyde Fire & Rescue area. We also attended a range of major events including The Glasgow Show, Glasgow River Festival, Preston Hall Rally Darlington, and numerous Classic Vehicle shows including Selkirk, Biggar, Lanark and Bridge of Allen.
Inagural Event
The Preservation Group was proud to stage the first ever Festival of Fire, in Paisley.
This event which was officially opened by the Provost of Paisley, was hosted by the Group in conjunction with Strathclyde Fire & Rescue Community Safety Department, Renfrewshire Council and Paisley Town Centre Management. This proved to be such a successful family orientated day, Renfrewshire Council have established this as an Annual Event.
The Group provided one of the static displays at Rescue on the Clyde, the prestigious international Extrication Challenge event staged by Strathclyde Fire & Rescue at the SECC in Glasgow.
Additions to the Appliance Fleet
Over the year, the Group has acquired several additions to the fleet.
In August, the Group purchased a 1940 Auxiliary Towing Vehicle. This vehicle is in its original grey livery and was the workhorse of the National Fire Service during the Second World War. This vehicle is in a drivable condition, but will require some minor mechanical and bodywork in preparation for showing at events in 2010..
In September, the Group also purchased a 1941 Leyland Turntable Ladder. Although this vehicle will require some restoration work, it will be on display at events next season.
Lothian & Borders Fire & Rescue donated a 1953 Dennis F8 fire appliance to the Group. It is hoped that the original unique paintwork and livery on this vehicle can be restored. It is a fine example of this type of appliance and restoration is well underway.
Three of our Group members have acquired their own appliances over the year. All of these vehicles have attended events throughout the season.
In December we were fortunate to be presented with a decommissioned fire engine and associated equipment donated from the Nuclear Power Station, Dounreay. This is a unique appliance as only two were ever made. This exclusive appliance which forms part of Scotland’s history was entrusted to the Group by British Nuclear Fuels. This donation is testimony to the national reputation of Strathclyde Fire & Rescue Preservation Group.
Further details of this and all other appliances under restoration can be found on the Group’s web site.
Partnerships
The Group has over the year has forged links with numerous partners and is working in conjunction with them on several projects. These partners include the Museum of Transport Glasgow, Edinburgh Fire Museum, 32(Scottish) Signals Regiment REME Detachment, Carberry Transport Dumbarton and Dounreay Nuclear Decommissioning Authority.
Website
The Group web team have recently launched Phase 2 of our new web site which reflects the work and activities of SFRPG. Despite being a fledgling site, it is already attracting regular attention worldwide. Congratulations go SFRPG’s Web Site Sub Committee for their efforts.
In conclusion.............
Without doubt, the Group’s achievements in 2009 have far exceeded even the most optimistic prediction. More has been achieved in the field of preserving and showcasing the heritage of the Fire Service in this year than in the Group’s history.
I would like to thank the Committee members for their hard work which has resulted in this record achievement. In addition, thanks to all members of the Group for their dedication and unique contributions, for without them we would not have the solid foundations on which to build further success.
My thanks go to Chief Officer, B.P. Sweeney, Senior Management of Strathclyde Fire & Rescue Service and the Fire Board of SFR, for all their help and support throughout the year.
Dave Adam, BA (Hons.), BSc, DipAppSS, MICM, GIFireE.
Chairman