KEIGHLEY’S fire brigade used to provide a stirring feature in our annual gala procession, as seen here.

The cluster of flags on the leading engine suggests that this may have been the coronation year of 1902.

A cautious fire brigade resolution of 1903 warned drivers “not to urge the horses on too much at the start when driving to a fire but to commence at a speed that can be maintained for the whole journey”.

By arrangement between Keighley Corporation committees, the fire brigade was allowed to borrow five tramcar horses when required, paying £200 a year for the privilege, though the tramways committee still considered itself £21 a year out of pocket.

When two tramcar horses died “in connection with fire brigade work” in 1902, £50 was paid for replacements.

Indeed, the arrangement never seems to have been satisfactory to either party, Captain Lonsdale of the fire brigade complaining of delays “in getting the horses from the stables to the fire station”.

This photograph has been supplied by Kevin Seaton, of Bradford Road, Riddlesden.