Page 5 - October 2023

COMPANY NEWS
The boats are named after two Second World War firefighters who were commended for bravery. Auxiliary Firewoman Gillian Tanner received the George Medal for her actions continuing to drive a fuel lorry during a night- time air raid. Auxiliary Fireman Harry Errington was awarded a George Cross for his rescue efforts after his fire station was hit by a bomb.
London Fire Commissioner, Andy Roe, said: “These boats may be new, but they also mark our history. The actions of Harry Errington and Gillian Tanner in the Second World War show the best of the London Fire Brigade, and it’s fitting that we honour their memory in this way”. “But as we honour our past, we must also look to the future. The cutting-edge technology employed on these boats shows our commitment to keeping London safe. As the risks facing London and Londoners change over time, it’s important we invest in and update our equipment to meet future challenges. These fire boats will help keep the Thames safe in the years to come.” Fiona Twycross, Deputy Mayor for Fire and Resilience said: “London Fire Brigade’s new state-of-the-art fire boats are a brilliant addition to our city’s waterways. I have seen first- hand how they are being used by dedicated crews on the water and on land, providing vital information to the fire service's control room and emergency service partners. These fire boats are funded by the Mayor as part of ongoing support from City Hall to modernise and transform the Brigade so that it is better prepared, organised and equipped to fight fires, as we build a safer London for everyone.”
Please note: The terms Fireman/ Firewoman were used to refer to Auxiliary Fire Service crews during the Second World War and are no longer used to refer to present-day firefighters.
The Bishop of London, Dame Sarah Mullally DBE said: “We are indebted to London Fire Brigade for the extraordinary work they do across the capital. Every hour of every day, they provide vital services to protect London’s people, communities, and buildings.
It was a privilege to christen the LFB’s new fire boats, which will play an important role in responding to emergencies, and in helping ensure the safety of all Londoners.” Among the people that attended the christening were Emma and Chris who had suggested the boat names as part of a staff competition, and a judging panel picked Tanner and Errington out of the finalists. The panel consisted of the London Fire Commissioner and staff from London Fire Brigade Museum, Lambeth River Station, Fire Cadets, and representatives of the Port of London Authority. These boats are based at Lambeth River Station and are crewed by specially trained firefighters. For further information, contact Joe Sterry joseph.sterry@london-fire.gov.uk
Please see below (in One From the Vaults and History & Heritage section on page 9 and 10) for an article about Auxiliary Fireman Harry Errington, GC, one of only two firefighters, recipients of the George Cross, eponym of one of the new LFB fireboats and Liveryman of this Company.
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