Firefighters past and present who have served at Huntingdon have reunited to say goodbye to Huntingdon Fire Station on Hartford Road after 57 years of operations.

A closing ceremony was held at the station on November 19 to mark its upcoming closure before it moves to its new home on Percy Road next year.

The colleagues, past and present, came together and celebrated the station, sharing memories and saying goodbye to the building that has been home to Huntingdon fire station for more than 50 years.

Watch Commander Dan Heathcote, who organised the event, said: “It was wonderful to see so many colleagues that have served at the station come together to have one last look around before it closes. 

“A few of those present were part of the Auxiliary Fire Service that moved into the station 57 years ago from Princes Street, so it was a real honour to welcome them back."

The Hunts Post: Watch Commander Daniel Heathcote addressed more than 150 people attendees and shared his memories of the station at the closing ceremony.Watch Commander Daniel Heathcote addressed more than 150 people attendees and shared his memories of the station at the closing ceremony. (Image: Archant)

More than 150 people attended the event, accumulating around 2,400 years of service combined.

Many memories of the station and incidents attended by crews there over the last few decades were shared throughout the day in speeches and conversation.

Fire engines were also on display, along with old firefighting equipment, photos and memorabilia.

The Hunts Post: Fire engines were on display at Huntingdon Fire Stations closing ceremony, which is the largest fire station in the district.Fire engines were on display at Huntingdon Fire Stations closing ceremony, which is the largest fire station in the district. (Image: Archant)

Watch Commander Heathcote added: “Having worked at the station over the last 23 years I will miss it, but the new facility is excellent, and I look forward to moving there in the new year.”

The station will move to its new location on Percy Road, north of Huntingdon, off the A141, in January 2023.

The new site will be home to a modern, purpose-built training centre and a new community fire station at St John’s Park. 

It provides a significant upgrade for the full-time and on-call operational staff, as well as support staff from occupational health, health and safety and operational support group. 

The Hunts Post: A artists impression of what the Fire Station on Percy Road will look like when it is complete.A artists impression of what the Fire Station on Percy Road will look like when it is complete. (Image: Cambs Fire and Rescue Service)

During the beginning of construction last year for the new fire station, chief fire officer Chris Strickland said: "We’ve been looking to improve the training facilities that we offer to staff for a number of years, as the current provision is not to the standard we want.

"This new facility will ensure we can offer our staff the best possible training without having to travel miles for it.”