Vintage Fire Engine "Martha" Continues Chris Wannell's Legacy

Strategic Insights -

A restored vintage fire engine, aptly named "Martha", has been making Christmas collections in West Swindon for over 80 years. The 1943 turntable ladder fire engine was owned by former mayor Chris Wannell, who rescued it from a scrap yard in 1975. Chris's family has continued to allow the Westlea Station to use the vehicle, raising over £100,000 for the Fire Fighters Charity with its help.

Key Takeaways:

  • The vintage fire engine "Martha" was made in 1943 for the war effort and has been in the Wannell family's possession since 1975.
  • Chris Wannell, a former firefighter and councillor, loaned the engine to Westlea Station on a yearly basis, and his family has continued to do so.
  • The fire engine has raised over £100,000 for the Fire Fighters Charity, earning Chris Wannell a lifetime achievement award in 2018.
  • Chris Wannell passed away at 79 in February, but his legacy lives on through the continued use of "Martha".
  • The Westlea Station's group manager, Dave Adamson, expressed gratitude towards the Wannell family for their support and donations over the years.
  • The engine has visited various locations, including Westlea, Eastleaze, and Shaw and Sparcells, collecting money for the charity.

Statistics:

  • The fire engine "Martha" was made in 1943.
  • Chris Wannell rescued the engine from a scrap yard in 1975.
  • The Wannell family has owned the engine for 46 years.
  • Chris Wannell raised over £100,000 for the Fire Fighters Charity using the fire engine.
  • Chris Wannell earned a lifetime achievement award in 2018.
  • The engine has visitors various locations, including 4 in this year (Westlea, Eastleaze, Shaw and Sparcells, and Ridgeway Farm).

Sources:

  • BBC Radio Wiltshire
  • Heather Wannell (Chris Wannell's daughter)
  • Group manager Dave Adamson of Westlea Station
  • The Fire Fighters Charity (www.firefighterscharity.org.uk)