VINTAGE fire engines from Greenock are set to take centre stage at a very special event marking the 200th anniversary of the founding of the world's first fire service in Scotland.
The beautiful appliances - housed in the town by the Scottish Fire Brigades Heritage Trust - will be at the Skypark business destination in Glasgow for the celebration next Tuesday.
A commemorative coin dedicated to brave men and women of the Scottish fire service will also be unveiled by Dave Adam, chair of the Scottish Fire Brigades Heritage Trust.
James Braidwood founded the first ever fire service in 1824.
The heritage trust's Mr Adam said: “We are very proud that the 200th year commissioned coin will be unveiled on the day.
“It represents the bravery of our men and women firefighters and the spirit of community protection that endures to this day. Proceeds of the coin will go to the upkeep of the old appliances and the Scottish fire and rescue service museum in Greenock."
Andy Carson, a volunteer event manager with the Greenock-based trust, said: “The first fire service was founded in Edinburgh after James Braidwood’s family business was destroyed by fire.
"Braidwood went on to encourage the City’s governors to found the first public fire brigade in the world.
"Our event is a great opportunity for children, schools and the community to find out more about working together to protect one another.
"Educating children at an early age on water safety awareness is a priority ahead of the summer break."
As well as the Greenock engines, the event will also feature a public safety demonstration when school pupils will join the Fire Brigade, the Scottish Ambulance Service Special Operations Team, and Police Scotland.
It will include a water safety awareness and a CPR demonstration for families by Police Scotland, alongside a special appearance by fire service mascot Hamish the Firedog.
Skypark’s Strategic Lettings Advisor, Angela Higgins of Resonance Capital, said: “Bringing our community together to commemorate 200 years of bravery and dedication of our fire service is not only humbling, but it also educates us all and strengthens our connections to keep us safe.
“Together, we can create a network of support that ensures the well-being of children and families in our community”.
The Superhero Services day event featuring the Scottish Fire Brigades Heritage Trust is free and open to the public.
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