Past Events

2019

• 08/01 - NFS Overseas Contingent going to Normandy

  To remember the NFS Overseas Columns, we are planning to head for the Normandy Beaches for the D-Day 75th anniversary. A group of twelve of us, eight NFS firemen and four partners are taking the Dodge Mobile Dam, the Austin … Continue reading →

2018

• 11/07 - Air Raids at the Severn Valley Railway

  Two enemy bombers made a daring raid on Kidderminster Station on the Severn Valley Railway of the GWR. Luckily no-one was injured, but a fuel dump caught fire. A shed with a quantity of black market sausages and other goods … Continue reading →
• 07/06 - Air Raid on the Great Central Railway

  Over the weekend of  2nd and 3rd June, a lone enemy bomber attacked a train in a remote railway yard to target the consignment of explosives and tanker of petrol arriving by train. Railway workers, and the wife of the … Continue reading →
• 05/02 - Training day, 24th February

  We plan to do a broad range of training, from basic hose and branch work for those who need it, through to pump drill, Turntable Ladder drill, and 6-inch hose laying from the RL truck, and pumping with the Green … Continue reading →
• 14/01 - Commemorating the Auxiliary Fire Service – 50 years on

  The AFS was formed in 1949 and served until disbanded, along with the rest of the Civil Defence movement, on 1st April 1968. The NFS and AFS Vehicles Group are planning to commemorate this with two significant events this summer. … Continue reading →
• 11/01 - Major Fire Display at Gaydon, 21-22 July 2018

  How do we commemorate the end of the AFS, which was disbanded in 1968, 50 years ago? I have recently had a long conversation with Dean Bloxham, who is on the organising committee for the Gaydon show this summer. It … Continue reading →

2017

• 17/07 - Photos from Black Country Living Museum

  ” ngg_triggers_display=”never” is_ecommerce_enabled=”1″ order_by=”sortorder” order_direction=”ASC” returns=”included” maximum_entity_count=”500″]   We are now all safely back home, and back into the 21st Century, after a superb weekend. For us, it was a first time, as we are normally at Woodhall Spa this … Continue reading →
• 06/07 - Photos from the Severn Valley Railway

  We have been sent some magnificent photos from a professional photographer, Phil Lea, who was with us on the second weekend. In case you missed the previous post, we are very grateful to Mr Matthews for shooting this video. 
• 05/07 - Air Raid at Severn Valley Railway

  We are back from a superb couple of weekends at the Severn Valley Railway, where we ran an air raid n each of the 4 days, each day getting slightly more spectacular than the last. We are very grateful to … Continue reading →
• 30/05 - More photos from Lanc and Tank

  I was very kindly sent some lovely photos by Keith Foster of www.Flywheelphotography.net, which he has given permission to use here. Thank you, Keith.
• 29/05 - Lanc, Tank and Military Machines 2017

  We have had a lovely weekend at the Lanc, Tank and Military Machines event at the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Museum. On Saturday we did a firefighting display using foam (washing up liquid), and on Monday, we did a joint display with … Continue reading →
• 28/05 - Air raid at Quorn Station, 3rd, 4th June 1942 (2017)

  The display will be at 1:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday in Quorn Yard in the space between the Goods Shed and Marquee. Quorn and Woodhouse Station, Woodhouse Road, LE12 8AG. A lone German bomber attacks a train parked in the siding … Continue reading →
• 15/01 - Info for Organisers

  If you organise a 1940s event, you may like to have a look at our new page, at the bottom of the ‘About Us’ menu, or here: nfs-afs.org.uk/about/info-for-organisers/ I wouldn’t look at the casualty folder of photos just before a meal!

2016

• 31/12 - Foam testing

  John and David went down to the farm to try out the foam branches. Armed with a few bottles of Aldi’s finest washing up liquid (about 30p a bottle), we got out the Beresford, connected suction to the test tank, … Continue reading →
• 17/07 - 1940s Festival at Woodhall Spa

  Back home from another successful, safe and enjoyable scenario at Woodhall Spa. We took part in the display ‘The Eagle has Landed’ in which German airmen dressed as Polish paratroopers attempted to capture Churchill. A number of our regular ‘Bloody … Continue reading →
• 20/05 - Air Raid at Quorn Station, GCR 4th-5th June 2016 – instructions for reenactors

  The display will be at 1:10pm on Saturday and Sunday in Quorn Yard in the space between the Goods Shed and Marquee. Quorn and Woodhouse Station, Woodhouse Road, LE12 8AG. The detail of the scenario is here. Please look at the … Continue reading →
• 30/03 - Photos from the Newark 75th Anniversary Commemoration

  Some photos from Timothy Rogers.
• 11/03 - Newark Advertiser photos

  In preparation for the Commemorative re-enactment of the Newark Air Raid, the Newark Advertiser came down to our storage facility to take some publicity photos. As it happens, a building had just been demolished, so we had the perfect backdrop. … Continue reading →
• 04/03 - Article in Newark Advertiser, and Convoy Instructions

  If you would like to come on the convoy to NSK and on to the Market Square and Church Service, please read the Instructions for the Convoy and Church Service Sun 6th March. 4 managers from NSK will be there … Continue reading →
• 26/02 - NSK visit and Radio interview today

  We are delighted to announce that NSK, the current owners of the former Ransome and Marles works, are happy to accommodate our visit on the Sunday afternoon following the air raid. The convoy will set off from the Air Museum … Continue reading →
• 23/02 - Newark Air Raid 75th commemoration – final instructions

  The final instructions are now available to download. All participants of the event must read these carefully. Newark Air Raid Final Instructions Additionally, please let me know by 28 Feb (by email info@nfs-afs.org.uk): Your choice of what sort of casualty you … Continue reading →
• 14/02 - Ransome and Marles 75th anniversary – leaflet available

  Click here to download the R & M Information leaflet which has all the timings for the weekend. More detailed information will come out for re-enactors in the next week or so.
• 05/02 - Plans for a significant air raid at Quorn GCR, 3rd-5th June 2016

  The display will be at 1:10pm on Saturday and Sunday in Quorn Yard in the space between the Goods Shed and Marquee. Quorn and Woodhouse Station, Woodhouse Road, LE12 8AG. The storyline is this: A number of wagons have been delivered … Continue reading →

2015

• 15/12 - Remembering the Sheffield Blitz 75th Anniversary 12 December 2015

  Last Sunday, Fran and I, Michael and Richard took the Turntable Ladder and a car-full of exhibits to the event at Sheffield Cathedral. We set off really well, with the vehicle going like a train, averaging 30+mph, until we were … Continue reading →
• 27/11 - 75th Anniversary Memorial Events 2016 – Newark

  7th March 1941 saw a daring raid by two German bombers on Ransome and Marles, the vital bearing factory in Newark. We are working with the events team at Newark Air Museum on a one day event on Sunday 6thMarch 2016, to … Continue reading →
• 27/11 - 75th Anniversary Memorial Events 2015

  There are a number of memorial events coming up, as we are now 75 years since the main Blitz by the Luftwaffe on London, and other British towns and cities. This is a bit of a departure for us, as … Continue reading →
• 03/11 - NFS in training at Papplewick

  Over the weekend of 10th / 11th October 1945, a small contingent of the NFS went to Papplewick Pumping Station for a small training exercise, and gained some useful experience with pump and hose drill. Whilst there, we found ourselves … Continue reading →
• 21/09 - Air Raid On the Home Front at Rufford Abbey 26-27 Sept 2015

  People are going about their business – police arresting spivs, civilians coming and going. There is a special event on in Rufford Abbey that a lot of people are present at. The air raid siren sounds, and people look round … Continue reading →
• 07/07 - Woodhall Spa Air Raid safety briefing

  >To ALL reenactors planning to take part in the Air Raid at Woodhall Spa on 18/19 July. It is ABSOLUTELY ESSENTIAL that you attend the safety briefing at 11:00am on the day of the air raid, and that you SIGN … Continue reading →
• 01/07 - Newark Emergency Services Heritage Show 4-5 July

  We are down to do a Wartime NFS display at 12:00 and a Cold War AFS display at 15:30 on Saturday, but on Sunday the times are AFS at 10:00 and NFS immediately following at 10:40. We also hope to … Continue reading →
• 16/03 - Training session on Fordson Escape and Turntable Ladder

  A group of 9 of us met to train on the Wheeled Escape and the Turntable Ladder. We wanted to get to be as competent and safe with the Escape as we are with the TL, and to practice rescue … Continue reading →

2014

• 21/11 - Possible events for 2015

  2015 looks like being a rather special year. We have the 75th anniversaries of Operation Dynamo, the Dunkirk evacuation in May, followed by 75th anniversaries of the Battle of Britain in the Summer, and the Blitz in the Autumn. Of … Continue reading →
• 03/11 - Photos of the ‘Salute to the Forties’ at Chatham Historic Dockyard 2014

  Although a long way, we decided to join our friends the ‘Heroes with Grimy Faces‘ and take the mobile canteen, which was very well received. During the weekend, the Picture Post came and did a photo shoot of the inside … Continue reading →
• 25/10 - Papplewick 2014 photos

  We took a small crew and the Turntable Ladder, and the K2 and a pump. The TL was demonstrated, but without water, as it was a bit breezy on Saturday. On Sunday, the wind got up and we were not … Continue reading →
• 19/10 - Talk from Church Parade at Papplewick

  Bible Reading John 4 Jesus Talks With a Samaritan Woman Now Jesus had to go through Samaria. So he came to a town, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. When a Samaritan … Continue reading →
• 17/10 - Papplewick Pumping Station this weekend 17 Oct 14

  Just a short note to say that we are taking the K2 with a pump, the Mobile Canteen and the Turntable Ladder. Additionally, we may take the Pump Escape on Sunday if there is any prospect of doing some training … Continue reading →
• 15/10 - Church Parade at Rufford Abbey – Liberation from Tyranny

  Bible Reading John 3 v 13-18 No one has ever gone into heaven except the one who came from heaven—the Son of Man, so that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him.” For God so loved the world … Continue reading →
• 14/10 - Photos of Air Raid at Rufford, Sept 2014

  We have just received a report from the ARP wardens as follows: At around 2:20pm we received word from our colleagues in Leicester that a doodlebug had passed overhead, and was approaching us. At 400mph, it would be with us … Continue reading →
• 26/09 - Rufford Abbey Air Raid timeline

  Important note for all participants: Briefing at 10:30 in the Turning Circle (Saturday) Start at 2:30 (Both Days) Siren is start of scenario. End of siren is cue for start of V1 approach sound. ARPs look to the sky, and … Continue reading →
• 01/09 - On the Home Front at Rufford Abbey, 27/28 September

  The NFS & AFS Vehicles Group are again staging a major air raid on the old abbey buildings, with sirens, V1 approaching, ARP clearing the street,  a single big explosion, civilians evacuated by ARP, the NFS tackling the fire, WVS assisting … Continue reading →
• 31/08 - Newstead Abbey Fire Event 31 August

  The East Midlands branch of the FSPG brought together a number of historic fire engines to make an impressive display as part of the Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue open day at Newstead Abbey. It was very interesting to compare modern and … Continue reading →
• 14/08 - Woodhall Spa photos

  There are some really great photos from the air raids from Mick Hill that have just been published. Saturday http://survivor79.smugmug.com/Other/AIR-RAID-at-THE-GOLF-HOTEL Sunday http://survivor79.smugmug.com/Other/THE-GOLF-HOTEL-AIR-RAID-20th Hope you enjoy them, even if you weren’t there!
• 08/08 - Retford War weekend, 9-10 August

  We are taking the Turntable Ladder, the K2 and a couple of pumps – the Large Dennis, and the Beresford Stork, as well as the Mobile Canteen. On Saturday, we will be doing pumping demonstrations and training, and hope to … Continue reading →
• 21/07 - Air Raid at Woodhall Spa

  Somehow the Germans got wind of an important visitor to Woodhall Spa over the weekend of 19th and 20th July 1940, and mounted a hit-and-run air raid on the Golf Hotel where the VIP was expected. A lone bomber passed … Continue reading →
• 08/07 - Air Raid at Kelham Island, Sheffield, this weekend

  We are planning to take the Turntable Ladder (which is currently round the corner at the National Emergency Services Museum) and a trailer pump to Kelham Island Industrial Museum for their 1940s event this weekend (12/13th July). A lone bomber … Continue reading →
• 05/06 - Derby Emergency Services Show cancelled 14-15 June

  Sadly, the Derby Emergency Services Show is cancelled, as the grounds at Elvaston Castle are already waterlogged, with a lot more rain forecast over the next week. That is a real shame, and completely gutting for all those who have … Continue reading →
• 03/05 - Rufford Historical Bazaar – pictures from Ian Beck

  Some lovely photos of WW1 firemen in action.
• 26/04 - Rufford Historical Bazaar

  We took the K2 and Coventry Climax pump, together with the brass helmets and a manual pump to try out firefighting from the First World War period. It was a superb multi-period event including everything from the Roman Soldiers to … Continue reading →
• 31/03 - Training for ARP and Casualties

  Last Saturday, we had a very good day, originally aimed at ARP, Police, WVS, First Aid and casualties, but in the end, only ARP and casualties, and my wife as WVS, turned up. We started out with a hand pump … Continue reading →
• 27/02 - Training session: Calling all ARP, Police, WVS, Medic and civilian reenactors in the East Midlands

  We (the NFS officers) would like to run another event, much shorter and simpler, aimed solely at ARP wardens, Police, WVS and Casualties, and we are suggesting a Saturday half-day in March. Starting at 12:30 with soup and a roll, … Continue reading →
• 20/02 - Chesterfield 1940s this weekend

  We are planning to take the Turntable Ladder to Chesterfield this Saturday – just for the one day. We should be outside the Museum from about 11am onwards, and weather permitting, we will do our customary inspection of the Museum roof.

2013

• 05/12 - Possible events for 2014

  February 1-2: Training Weekend for re-enactors See separate post for info on this here. February 22-23: Chesterfield’s Forties & Vintage Weekend, The Winding Wheel, Chesterfield, Derbyshire. Annual 1940s and vintage event with market, entertainments and dancing. June 14-15: Great Central … Continue reading →
• 13/11 - Photos from Papplewick 1940s

  On a CD kindly dropped through my letter box.
• 18/10 - Papplewick this weekend

  We are planning to take the K2 with the Beresford Stork trailer pump for the weekend, and the mobile canteen just for Saturday. We will have a fairly small crew, and will be portraying an NFS training session, with ladder … Continue reading →
• 09/10 - Photos from Kelham Island

  Here are some photos kindly sent by Smilyan Pavlov.
• 11/09 - Photos of Rufford Abbey by Catriona Sutcliffe

  Catriona Sutcliffe and Norman Brown took these photos. Thank you both.
• 02/09 - Rufford Air Raid video

  You can watch the full air raid here (low res) or here (medium res). Ian Beck has posted another video here.
• 31/08 - Successful Air Raid at Rufford

  We had a successful air raid today. Everything worked out, after sorting a teething problem with the Turntable Ladder in the morning. We involved lots of other re-enactors, and the casualties looked great. More photos coming soon.
• 21/08 - Air Raid at Rufford Abbey 31 Aug-1 Sept

  It is now less than 2 weeks to go, and we are starting to make plans for the air raid. We are looking for people to take part – we all had such a good time both last year, and … Continue reading →
• 12/08 - Crich, and the NFRS 999 Day at Newstead Abbey

  Last weekend, we took the K2 and a pump to the Crich 1940s weekend simply as a static exhibit, as sadly we did not have the crew for a display. This was partly due to the clash with the Nottinghamshire … Continue reading →
• 06/08 - Woodhall Spa – our best event yet!

  Back from an absolutely phenomenal weekend at Woodhall Spa. We did an air raid both days early in the afternoon. On Saturday, the sirens sounded, and the bombers came overhead. Bombs fell on the hotel and the ARP wardens were … Continue reading →
• 01/08 - Woodhall Spa this weekend 3-4 Aug

  This is going to be our biggest event yet. It will be the first and possibly only event with all three WW2 appliances out. It will be the maiden trip for our new NFS mobile canteen. A major event at … Continue reading →
• 01/08 - Kelham Island photos from Alice Spooner
• 25/07 - More photos from Kelham Island

  From Ian Thomason
• 24/07 - Kelham Island 1940s Weekend photos

  Photos from Mick Hill.
• 07/07 - Recent Events

  A few weeks ago, we went to Castle Bytham Midsummer Fair, which had a 1940s theme. It was a nice day, despite the light rain, although we were short of crew. In the end, Michael and I did a training … Continue reading →
• 07/07 - Derby Fire Show

  A substantial NFS and AFS contingent made its way to Derby Fire Show on the weekend of 15/16 June. Unfortunately the Fordson broke down whilst in a convoy from Lowdham to Derby. However, in the AFS contingent we had 5 … Continue reading →
• 10/06 - Air raids on Quorn station – disaster averted

  The National Fire Service successfully responded to the Air Raids over Quorn Station on the Great Central main line over the weekend, putting out fires in the railway goods yard caused by a stick of HE bombs dropped by a … Continue reading →
• 06/06 - Final details for Quorn this weekend (8-9 June)

  Final details, and the soundtracks we will be using, can be found here. The main air raid on the goods yard will be at 1:30pm.
• 29/05 - K4 to visit Sheffield Fire and Police Museum, 1-2 June

  The Fire and Police Museum (firepolicemuseum.org.uk) are having a 1940s event this coming weekend, and have asked for a wartime appliance to be in attendance, to augment their K2 and TP. So I am taking the K4 Turntable Ladder up … Continue reading →
• 10/05 - The Princess Royal unveils the Memorial to Nottinghamshire Firefighters

  The memorial is to all firemen, ARP wardens, Civil Defence, Fire Watchers and more recent Firefighters from Nottinghamshire who died in the line of duty. Obviously most died during WW2, but there were a few since. I had been invited … Continue reading →
• 11/04 - The Princess Royal to unveil the new Notts Firefighters Memorial

  Rather excited about meeting the Princess Royal in a few weeks time. I have been invited to represent the wartime National Fire Service on the guard of honour, and to provide a wartime Turntable Ladder as one of the three … Continue reading →
• 25/03 - Invite to Castle Bytham Midsummer Fair Sat 23rd June

  Castle Bytham, just off the A1, are having the 1940s as the theme for their summer fair, and we have been invited to take part. Apparently they are quite keen, but I think a full-blown air raid would blow their … Continue reading →
• 04/03 - Chesterfield at the Winding Wheel, 2013

  The plan was quite complicated, but essentially involved getting the TL to Chesterfield Fire Station (where we had permission to store it overnight) on the Friday evening, before going to the dance. Then collecting the TL on Saturday, and returning … Continue reading →
• 10/01 - K4 breaks down on way to Alf Porkett’s funeral

  Everything was prepared – a test run last weekend, adequate petrol, black ribbon, tunics, choice of cap or helmet, belts and axes, boots cleaned, wet legs sorted – all ready. I set off this morning for Wilford Hill Crematorium, and … Continue reading →
• 06/01 - NFS invited to the funeral of Alf Porkett

  We have been invited to a funeral next Thursday, to represent the National Fire Service, with the Turntable Ladder. Alf joined the Police Fire Brigade in Nottingham City in the 1930s and served throughout World War 2. He was taken … Continue reading →

2012

• 07/11 - Woodhall Spa 1940s weekend, 3-4 Aug 2013

  We have been invited to the Woodhall Spa 1940s weekend, and being a village setting, it has the potential to be a very realistic Air Raid scenario involving lots of people. We have also heard that the management of The … Continue reading →
• 03/11 - Supporting the British Legion, and the AFS in Leicester

  Today I took the K2 and Dennis pump to the Paviors Rugby Club at Burnt Stump to support the local branch of the British Legion. Not a large crowd, but worthwhile to raise the profile. Meanwhile, a couple of interesting … Continue reading →
• 04/10 - Papplewick 1940s event

  Sadly, we are unable to raise a crew for this event, so will not be there.
• 02/10 - The AFS at Welland Steam Rally 2012

  So the dust has settled, and all the big toys are back to bed. We were a much smaller group than in previous years, although perhaps more focussed on the AFS, with no red or grey fire engines this year. … Continue reading →
• 14/09 - More photos and a video of the Air Raid at Rufford Abbey

  Mick Hill has just sent in a selection of his photos, and James walker has edited his video. Mick’s full set of photos is available here, with a special set on the 25 pounder here. James’ video is here. It … Continue reading →
• 12/09 - Welland Display, 21-23 Sept

  With the new dates being in school holidays, and John having already gone back to sea, it will be a slightly smaller AFS display than usual. Or to be precise, more focussed on AFS, without any red or grey appliances. … Continue reading →
• 03/09 - The Air Raid on Rufford Abbey, 1-2 September 2012

  The Scenario The ARP wardens were relaxing in their posts when the alert came in. The air raid sirens sounded – five in all around the site, and already the crowd had gathered. You could hear the approaching drone of … Continue reading →
• 02/09 - Rauceby War Weekend

  Here are some photos from our friend Tim Rogers from the Rauceby War Weekend over the Bank Holiday Weekend (25-27 August 2012).
• 16/08 - The NFS saves the pub in Crich from an Air Raid

  The air raid at Crich Tramway Museum last Saturday: The NFS turn out to an air raid at Crich A wonderful video by James and Karina.
• 14/08 - Sunday at Crich

  Well, what d’you know? The Germans bombed the same pub again the very next day at the same time! Luckily for the pub, the National Fire Service was on full alert at their base just a few hundred yards up the road, … Continue reading →
• 11/08 - Crich 1940s today

  We had an early start today to get all the vehicles to Crich Tramway Museum in time to get the water supply prepared before the museum opened to the public at 10am. The main event was a scenario just after … Continue reading →
• 01/08 - RAF Cranwell Fly-in 19th August

  The annual Fly-in organised by the Cranwell Flying Club at RAF Cranwell is looking like it will be a great fun event. We have been invited to take all three wartime vehicles to set the scene amongst 60 visiting aircraft, … Continue reading →
• 29/07 - NFS display at Crich Tramway Museum 1940s weekend

  John Sutcliffe and David Needham have just been to Crich to discuss with Doug our display at the 1940s weekend  (11th/12th August).  We have been working on a display involving the T/L, K2 and trailer pump.  The scenario will involve … Continue reading →
• 29/07 - Events in August and September

  Some great NFS displays coming up soon, on five consecutive weekends!. In two weeks (11/12 Aug) we are doing a major display at Crich. David Needham and John Sutcliffe are organising this, but I believe the Red Lion gets hit … Continue reading →
• 26/07 - The K4 turntable ladder as a wedding car

  Last weekend was my step-daughter Catherine’s wedding to Brian, and the K4 came along. Various guests/bridesmaids had a ride, and at the reception we put the ladder up. The groom’s father asked to go up, so up he went, all … Continue reading →
• 08/07 - More photos of Lowdham Floods by Roger Fell
• 08/07 - More Staveley Photos
• 07/07 - NFS at Staveley Armed Forces Weekend

  Today the K2 and Trailer Pump featured in the Staveley Armed Forces and Veterans Association parade through the town down to Poolbrook Park where we were able to do a pumping display drawing water from the lake. I was assisted … Continue reading →
• 06/07 - Lowdham floods again – make pumps one

  The very heavy rain this morning just to the north of Lowdham all came down the Cocker Beck, reached the top of some of the bridges, and spilled over. At one point Station road was 7 to 8 inches deep, … Continue reading →
• 02/07 - Clumber photos by Mick Hill
• 27/06 - Lovely photos of Clumber by Mick Hill

  Mick Hill has taken some lovely photos, and this time, I managed to encourage him to take some action shots to complement the lovely static shots of past events. NFS at Clumber I think these are some of the best … Continue reading →
• 26/06 - Nice photos of Rufford last year

  I have just found these:  Incendiary lands and ARP injured. (5 photos) ARP warden injured, and firemen arrive. (20 photos) These are photos of our arena scenario, where we had smoke from an ‘incendiary bomb’, which subsequently exploded, injuring an … Continue reading →
• 25/06 - Clumber last weekend, Burton next weekend

  We took the Turntable Ladder, and the K2 and Dennis trailer pump. The TL went on Friday evening, via Hannah’s school Prom. The displays on Saturday consisted of a pumping session by the lake, and TL drill. On Sunday, we … Continue reading →
• 18/06 - Wartime Clumber this weekend

  We are taking the K4 TL and the K2 and Dennis pump to Clumber Park for the ‘Wartime Clumber’ event organised for the National Trust by Eventplan. We plan to do displays at Noon, 2pm and 4pm. The first will … Continue reading →
• 10/06 - 1940s at the Great Central Railway – a weekend of contrasts

  We took the K4 TL and the K2 and Dennis trailer pump to Quorn Station. The previous week, the weather had been horrendous, but on Friday evening, I took the dam to Quorn and set a hose pipe filling it. … Continue reading →
• 21/05 - Operation Bridgett – building an AFS pipe bridge

  Rob Leese, who organised the event writes: Operation Bridgett achieved its 2 objectives of passing water across a reproduction aluminium pipe bridge, and to serve as a trial run for the Derby show. There were one or two challenges (euphemism … Continue reading →
• 16/05 - Upcoming events for the NFS Vehicles Group

  June and early July will be a very busy time for the group, with a number of great events coming up. 9th / 10th June is the wartime event at Quorn Station on the Great Central Railway. (www.gcrailway.co.uk) They also do … Continue reading →
• 24/04 - Welland entries

  This year, we are again restricted to a limited space, so I will be looking for a good diversity of entries. As ever, I do need a lot of manpower to put on a good display, so if you would … Continue reading →
• 24/04 - Operation Bridgett at Mercia Marina, Sunday 20th May

  Our next outing is an AFS display to try out our new 6″ pipe bridge with water. The location will be Mercia Marina, Willington, just off the A38/A50 junction a few miles South of Derby. The objectives are: to demonstrate … Continue reading →
• 09/04 - Crich Tramway Museum in the wet

  On the Saturday, we had another look at the brakes, and took the master cylinder off. And, yes, a tiny vent hole was completely blocked, which caused the brakes to bind. Now truly sorted, even though it took all evening … Continue reading →
• 26/03 - 1940s weekend at Crich Tramways Museum

  We are planning to take the K4 Turntable Ladder to Crich Tramway Museum 1940s weekend on Easter Sunday afternoon and all day Monday. At 31 miles, although not the furthest trip it has undertaken (that honour is taken by the Rauceby … Continue reading →
• 01/03 - Chesterfield 1940s event at the Winding Wheel

  We took the K4 TL to Chesterfield last weekend and parked outside the Museum on the Saturday morning. This followed an intense couple of weeks getting the vehicle ready, which included fitting the crew cab and electronic ignition, and a … Continue reading →
• 16/02 - Review of Trip to London Fire Museum, 13th Feb 2012

  On Monday we had a very successful trip to London. By driving to Milton Keynes, we got tickets costing £10 adults, £1 children day return to London with Central Zone tube thrown in. A real bargain. We took the tube … Continue reading →
• 08/01 - Cheque presentation to the Notts Firefighters Memorial Appeal

  Today the East Midlands branch of the Fire Services Preservation Group (www.fspgeastmids.co.uk) presented a cheque for £232 to the Notts Firefighters Memorial Appeal (www.nottsfirefightermemorial.org). This was mainly raised by tombolas run by the ladies in the group at events where … Continue reading →

2011

• 08/11 - Rufford, Sept 2011

  At this event, we did a major display in the main arena, involving all three vehicles, and our friends from the Heritage Ambulance Association with their K2 Ambulance. The scenario was that an ARP warden and Fire Guard were tackling … Continue reading →
• 23/10 - Papplewick 1940s event

  Although this was in October, we had almost summer weather. On Saturday, we had the K2 and Dennis, and the Turntable Ladder. Saturday was a rather quiet day, and gave us the chance to try things out. We did a … Continue reading →
• 26/09 - Recent Events

  Reluctantly, we decided not to go to the Victory Show, as we had too many vehicle maintenance issues, including further painting on the K4 and a blowing head gasket on the Fordson (yet to be addressed). The next weekend, we … Continue reading →
• 08/09 - NFS display at Rufford 1940s Home Front weekend 10-11 Sept

  This weekend is the 1940s Home Front weekend at Rufford Abbey organised by Eventplan – details are at www.eventplan.co.uk So far, I have heard from: Richard Townsley – both days. Bringing trailer of equipment? Meet at Rufford. Peter Townsley – expected … Continue reading →
• 03/09 - Rauceby War Weekend report, photos and video

  The Rauceby page has been updated with a report, photos and a video here. [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K2eEV1V92s4]
• 29/08 - Crich 1940s Aug 2011
• 25/08 - Events in the next few weeks

  The next few weeks is a busy time for wartime re-enacting locally. This coming Bank Holiday weekend (27th-29th Aug) we will be at the Rauceby War Weekend. We are planning to take three vehicles: the K2 and Dennis trailer, the … Continue reading →
• 25/08 - New video of Trailer Pump Demo at Welland

  I have posted videos on youtube, mainly filmed by the Walker family of the  6-inch Pumping Demonstration and the Trailer Pump Demonstration.
• 21/08 - Clumber at War, June 2011

  Clumber is a great location for us – it has a lake that is nicely accessible. And the grass by the lake means that we can drive our vehicles as well – a simulated ‘shout’. It is a superb weekend, … Continue reading →
• 21/08 - Rauceby 1940s Weekend

  We went to Rauceby over the Bank Holiday Weekend, 27th-29th August, and took the K2 and Dennis pump, and the K4. We were a bit thin on numbers, with David, John and Michael, Dan and James being the mainstay. We … Continue reading →
• 11/08 - Videos of the AFS display at Welland

  I have posted a video on youtube, mainly filmed by James and Dan Walker here There is a lower-quality one uploaded by ‘truckphotos’ here
• 03/08 - Welland 2011 report and photos

  The Welland Steam Rally is a huge event. And for our demonstrations, as with all demonstrations, we need to practice. This is the second year we have been to Welland and so there is a core of experience, however there … Continue reading →
• 15/07 - Welland Final Instructions

  To all involved in the AFS display, Mike Phelps says he is posting out the passes and wristbands in the next day or so. If you do not get what you are expecting, please let me know ASAP, as Mike … Continue reading →
• 03/07 - NFS display at Nottingham mentioned in NFRS magazine

  Our display at Nottingham Central Fire Station in May got a good mention in the summer edition of ‘Response’, the quarterly magazine of the Notts Fire and Rescue service. See page 10 of www.notts-fire.gov.uk/Documents/Response_Summer_2011.pdf
• 15/06 - Operation Malt Shovel – 2nd and 3rd July

  We have just accepted the invitation from the National Brewing Centre at Burton-on-Trent to take part in their 1940s event. We plan to go on the Saturday only as a day trip, (although free overnight accommodation is available). We could take a … Continue reading →
• 14/06 - Firefighters Memorial Appeal committee meeting

  I have just got back from the Notts Firefighters Memorial Appeal committee meeting, and a number of interesting things arose: Feedback from the Nottingham Open Day was extremely good. The Lord Mayor apparently said that of all the events he … Continue reading →
• 12/06 - Great Central Railway, 11-12th June

  We took part in the 1940s Weekend at Quorn Station on the Great Central Railway. On the Saturday morning we took the K2 and Dennis trailer pump, followed by the Fordson Escape Carrier. Our main display on both Saturday and … Continue reading →
• 20/05 - More photos of Nottingham – Designcat

  These lovely photos were taken by Julie Green, of Designcat Photography, and are reproduced here with permission. Copyright rests with Designcat.  
• 16/05 - Article for FSPG magazine

  1940s Open Day in Nottingham An air raid siren sounded in the centre of a busy city centre on a Saturday morning, in the Old Market Square with shoppers passing by. It was Nottingham on Saturday 7th May, exactly 70 years … Continue reading →
• 09/05 - Article in Nottingham Evening Post, 9th May

  http://www.thisisnottingham.co.uk/news/Nottingham-remembers-Blitz-70-years/article-3534091-detail/article.html
• 08/05 - Photos of NFS at Nottingham Fire Station Open Day

  The photos on this page are from David and Frances Moore, Dan Walker, Rob Leese. Many thanks. The video was taken by firefighter John Adams from the top of the Aerial Platform.  
• 07/05 - Article in Newark Advertiser

  http://www.newarkadvertiser.co.uk/news/view.asp?id=71cf7eed-c7aa-102e-a160-5245621c65a9
• 06/05 - Saturday Timings for Old Market Square display

  09:00 Re-enactors arrive at Central Fire Station 09:15 Briefing 09:30 Ensure everything is ready 09:45 Doors open to public 09:50 Air raid siren sounds in Fire Station – crews on alert 09:55 Bells go down – all vehicles turn out. … Continue reading →
• 27/04 - Nottingham Open Day update

  Two wartime ambulances, based at Papplewick, are coming for the weekend, and will be based in the Fire Station appliance room over the weekend. They will form part of the convoy to the Market Square, and will render first aid … Continue reading →
• 21/04 - Press Release

  Have you ever wondered what it was like to be a firefighter in the Blitz? Or wished you could try out the wartime equipment yourself? Or would you be interested to see wartime firefighting pumps and vehicles in action? The … Continue reading →
• 24/03 - Mansfield Fire Museum

  Young Michael and I took the K2 and trailer pump, and met Paul and Ryan there event last Sunday. Had a good, but fairly low-key. We did two demonstrations, morning and afternoon, showing use of stirrup pumps (the kids always … Continue reading →
• 19/03 - Rufford 2009
• 15/03 - Clumber 2010

  Some nice photos
• 01/03 - Nottingham Event update

  Latest News – we have been invited to do a road run into the centre of Nottingham, and a display attended by the Mayor of Nottingham in the Old Market Square over the weekend of 7th and 8th May as … Continue reading →
• 23/02 - Welland pumping competition

  At Welland this year, as well as the main lunchtime demonstration, we have the opportunity to run a pumping competition, with 5-minute arena slots morning and afternoon on each of the three days of the event. That means we can … Continue reading →
• 22/02 - AFS at Welland

  There is a major Steam Rally at Welland, which is between Malvern and Upton-on-Severn. It happens on the last weekend of July, which this year falls on Fri-Sun 29-31 July. We go to the Rally on Wed 27th, and spend … Continue reading →
• 22/02 - NFS at Nottingham Central Fire Station, 7th and 8th May

  The National Fire Service Display Group have been invited to display at the Open Day at the Central Fire Station in Shakespeare Street, Nottingham NG1 4FB over the weekend of 7th and 8th May 2011. The National Fire Service will … Continue reading →

2010

• 10/08 - AFS at Welland 2010

  The Auxiliary Fire Service is back after 42 years OK, not as part of a nationwide Civil Defence movement to protect Britain in the event of a nuclear war, but as a display group at Welland Steam Rally near Malvern … Continue reading →