The National Fire Service in Woking and a Pump Relay competition in Guildford

From the collection of

Screen Archive South East at the University of Brighton
Screen Archive South East at the University of Brighton collects, preserves, catalogues and provides public access to its collection of films and magic lantern slides. The collection charts the rise of screen culture in the region and the nation and captures many aspects of life, work and creativity in the South East from the late 19th century to the present day. It is available for research, screenings, creative re-use and commercial access.

The National Fire Service in Woking and a Pump Relay competition in Guildford


Men of the NFS demonstrate their fire fighting equipment skills before an audience in this splendid colour film from 1942. And the best crews get the best prizes.

Guildford is the setting for the National Fire Service's Trailer Pump competition in this superb film from October 1942. Firemen from various local districts, previously belonging to the A.F.S., race to set up their equipment, spray a target and then dismantle everything over a set course in the fastest possible time. Spectators watch from the sidelines while officials judge the teams. After a number of speeches, the parading firemen are awarded prizes.

The National Fire Service, featured in this film, superseded the Auxilliary Fire Service, or A.F.S., in August 1941. Eric Giles, the filmmaker, eventually reached the rank of Senior Company Officer within the organisation.


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