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The Merryweather Project

Bringing Our Merryweather Home - Good As New

Once promised to Bexhill Museum in 1920 after years of service to the town, Bexhill's 1895 Merryweather horse-drawn, steam powered fire engine went on its travels elsewhere, and now more than 100 years later it's finally come home. But it needs some love and care!

In 1984 Chief Fire Officer Eric Whittaker arranged for the machine to be loaned to the Fire Service National Museum Trust. 

The Trust recently wound up and so we are privileged to have this amazing piece of history back with us, after a 700 mile round trip to collect it. 

Working with Bexhill Museum, we have launched fundraising for a refurbishment programme before it goes on display permanently at the museum. The aim is to bring in specialist restorers, in order to make it safe, return it to its former glory and ensure its continued significance for future generations. The fundraiser will enable the engine to be used at community events, ultimately residing at Bexhill Museum.

As part of the fundraising campaign, crews from Bexhill Fire Station will be arranging various initiatives and events to generate support and raise the necessary funds for the restoration project, including wellbeing walks, car washes, rope rescue abseil and a Halloween open day. You can find out more about events via What's on | East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service (esfrs.org) and our social media pages.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service and Bexhill Museum invite all members of the community to support this bid or simply spread the word. By coming together, we can ensure that this beloved fire engine regains its original splendour and continues to serve as a powerful symbol of our heritage.

How to donate:

A fundraising page has been set up here:

Fundraiser by The Museum Volunteer Team : Bring Bexhill's First Fire Engine Home (gofundme.com)