Fire Buffs promote the general welfare of the fire and rescue service and protect its heritage and history. Famous Fire Buffs through the years include Edward VII, who maintained a kit at a London fire station.

June 28, 2013

WOOLWORTH - 1979

Photo: Skyscraper City

Photo: Manchester Libraries


Photo: Woolworths Museum
On May 8, 1979, flames swept a Woolworth store in central Manchester, England, killing 10 people and injuring 47 others. The fire started in an electrical cable and spread to furniture made of flammable polyurethane foam. There were about 500 people in the store at the the time. Among the victims was Woolworth employee Cyril Baldwin, 68, who served as an auxiliary fireman during World War Two and died trying to save others.

June 27, 2013

STRATFORD-UPON-AVON - 1926




On March 6, 1926, fire struck Stratford's Shakespeare Memorial Theatre. A passing cyclist raised the alarm.