The following report was received from the Secretary of the brigade:-

“In presenting my report of the work done by the Rushden Fire Brigade during the past year I wish to point out to the Council that owing to the rapid growth of the town and the consequent increase of fire risks, it has been thought necessary by the Captain to make new rules for the re-organisation of the Brigade; these rules will shortly be laid before you for confirmation.

“The fires in town during the year have been practically nil, which tends to show great care and watchfulness on the part of the inhabitants. (see appendix).

“The electric bells fitted by the Telephone Company have worked well. The chief difficulty now experienced is in connection with out-of-town fires, the want of horses on the spot causing great delay. Application will shortly be made to you for more modern appliances which the Brigade think absolutely necessary to cope with a fire of any serious dimensions.

“It is with extreme regret that the Brigade report the death of Fireman George Burgess whose loss to the Brigade is much felt.”

The following appendix accompanied the report:-

1903

May 2 – Called at 10.25 p.m. to Oakley Cottages, Wellingborough Road; hose cart, &c. Damage slight.

Aug. 5 – Called at 12.50 p.m. to Melchbourne, stack fire, 16 hours away. Damage £180.

Aug. 8 – Called at 10.52 p.m. to Hargrave, bed and bedding. Damage slight.

Sept. 19 – Called at 6.45 p.m. to Green’s Yard, bed and bedding. Damage slight.

Dec. 8 – A fire occurred in the house of Mr. George Chettle at 10.30 p.m. in which a room was burnt out.

Dec. 22 – Called at 8 a.m. to Washbrook Road, roof alight; called but not required. Damage slight.

1904

Jan. 14 – Called to Police-station at 1.55 p.m., explosion of heating chamber.

Jan. 24 – Called to a light showing 16 miles away.

February – Called to a light showing at Irthlingborough.

December – Called to Knuston Hall.

Theatre Duties.

Two men, with stand pipe and hose attended 24 times during the year.