Skip to content

Fire engine returns to Sussex after over 100 years

Sam Dixon-French/BBC A red cart-like vehicle, with a big red wheel at the front and a smaller red one at the back. There is a boiler and other pieces of machinery on top of the cart Sam Dixon-French/BBC
Returning the fire engine has been a "long-term ambition", Dawn Whittaker from East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said

A 1895 Merryweather fire engine has been returned to Bexhill after an absence of more than 100 years and handed over to the town's museum.

The Bexhill Museum is now working with the East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service (ESFRS) to raise funds for the refurbishment of the vehicle before it goes on permanent display.

Dawn Whittaker, ESFRS's chief fire officer, said it had been "off the run for around 100 years".

"I am so grateful to Bexhill Town Council, and also to the museum for all the hard work they’ve done to help us bring this into fruition and to make this a reality," she added.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service Black and white image of eleven men lined up with the small fire engine. They are dressed in uniform, with long boots and long jackets with 12 buttons, and a wide belt with a large buckle. They are also wearing tall helmets that curve slightly at the topEast Sussex Fire and Rescue Service
The 1895 Merryweather is seen as a symbol of Bexhill's heritage

The horse-drawn, steam-powered vehicle was promised to the museum in 1920 after it had performed years of service in the town.

However, the Merryweather was then loaned to the Fire Service National Museum Trust in 1984.

After the trust was closed, Merryweather was returned to Bexhill, where it will now be restored.

The fundraiser will allow the engine to be used at community events, while ultimately being displayed at the museum.

As part of the fundraising campaign, Bexhill Fire Station crews are organising events to generate support and raise funds for the restoration project.

Follow BBC Sussex on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected] or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.

Related internet links