HISTORICALEIGH - The Leigh Belle

April 13, 2015 by Carole Mulroney

The Leigh Belle

In January 1909 the Leigh Fire Brigade took possession of a brand new fire engine, The Leigh Belle.

The populattion of Leigh was about 7000 at the time and the total value of property £750,000 with goods and stock another £750,000.

Captain Johnson of the Fire Brigade (also the local undertaker) said it was the proudest moment of the firemen's lives, for after 10 years they were now in possession of a fully equipped steamer, manual, escape, horsecart and 1000 feet of hose. The Brigade now numbered 16 all connected by telephone (just picture that if you will).

The official reception on the Cliffs was followed by dinner at the Grand Hotel for about 60 people. After the dinner there was a concert and during the evening Mr W T Taylor handed Mr F W Senier £50 being the proceeds of the Carnival fund for the purchase of the new fire engine.