East Sussex Fire Brigade Marks Historic Milestone at Saltdean Lido
On Thursday, 4 July 2024, past and present firefighters, dignitaries, volunteers, and Fire Authority members gathered at iconic Saltdean Lido in East Sussex. The event celebrated a key chapter in the history of the East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service (ESFRS) with a day packed full of memories and tributes.
From County Borough Brigades to One Force
Back on 1 April 1974, the Local Government Act 1972 merged the Brighton, Eastbourne, and Hastings fire brigades with the East Sussex Fire Brigade. This formed the East Sussex County Fire Brigade, a major step forward in improving fire safety and emergency response across the region. While firefighting in East Sussex stretches back much further, this union marked a pivotal moment for the community’s safety.
Saltdean Lido’s Fiery Role in Wartime Britain
Saltdean Lido isn’t just a stunning spot for a sunny day by the sea. During World War II, the adjacent Ocean Hotel housed the Fire Service and became the National Fire Service College. Even the Lido’s pool was used as a giant water tank for firefighter training throughout the war. After the conflict, the Ocean Hotel served as headquarters for the newly-formed East Sussex Fire Brigade before they moved to Lewes in 1948.
Firefighters returned to Saltdean Lido in 2023 for rescue training — their first time back since WWII — highlighting the Lido’s deep ties to East Sussex’s fire history.
Special Guests and Historic Highlights
- Eric Whitaker, East Sussex’s Chief Fire Officer from 1970 to 1984, who led the Brigade through this period of change, was a key guest alongside Peter Holland, former Chief Fire and Rescue Adviser to the government.
- Bruce Hoad, Past Master of the Worshipful Company of Firefighters, delivered a heartfelt speech recalling the service’s history and honouring fallen heroes.
- A stunning display of rare memorabilia was showcased, including artefacts from Peter Holland, Bruce Hoad, Mike Garrett, and ESFRS’s Guy Bowes.
- Fire heritage experts discussed the Merryweather restoration project for an 1895 horse-drawn steam fire engine, returned to East Sussex after decades away.
- Officials in attendance included the Deputy Mayor of Telscombe, Councillor Isobel Sharkey, alongside former Chief Fire Officers Des Prichard and Gary Walsh.
- Special recognition went to Roger Easey, celebrating 50 years of service, and Graham Wilton, the first retained firefighter appointed after the 1974 Brigade merger.
Leaders Praise the Service’s Proud History
CFO Dawn Whittaker said, “We are very proud of East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service and our rich history of serving the communities of East Sussex and Brighton and Hove. Our history is hugely important. It forms the strength of our roots. As leaders, we have a duty and privilege to be custodians of it. I was thrilled to host this event and thank everyone for their participation and continued support.”
Whittaker, alongside Deputy Chief Fire Officer David Norris and Assistant Chief Fire Officer Mark Matthews, stressed the importance of remembering and celebrating this significant milestone.
