Bishopstone Fire Engine

The Swindon Advertiser

Fri 26 May, 1905

 

Bishopstone

 

 

New Fire Engine. The 22 man manual fire engine purchased by the Parish Council was received on Saturday last. A procession, consisting of the old fire engine (which bears the date of 1605), driven by Mr John Povey (who has been Captain for many years), and the new engine, left Shrivenham Station about 6.30 pm and proceeded by way of Bourton. After the engine had been inspected and admired at Bourton House, and the members duly entertained, a start was made for Bishopstone. The Bishopstone Brass Band met the procession at the outskirts of the village, and marched in front playing joyful music. Most of the villagers were waiting in the High Street. A halt was made at the residence of Mr J. Povey, the home of the ancient engine which has been of such valuable service for so many years. The Band played ‘Auld lang syne.’ The new engine was then taken round the village  and halted at the residences of the principal inhabitants. The Parish Council have formed a Fire Brigade, consisting of Messrs Frank Povey (Captain), J. Durham, T. Chivers, T. Tasker, Ernest Shale, R. Redford, Mr Wilson, H. Pearse, H.J. Titchener, Eli Vincent, John Hunt, George Taylor and F. Cook. The Brigade after receiving efficient instruction in their duties, will in a short time give a display of the capabilities of the engine at the Mill Pond.