UNDER FIRE - By Ray Chilton ... This is a gritty tale - of passion and professionalism, and humor and heartache - about 20 years at one of the world's most exciting fire stations, Soho at the heart of London's West End. Ray Chilton was a firefighter for over 30 years. Chilton describes major incidents such as the Oxford Circus tube fire, the Aldwych bus bomb and a fire at The Royal Academy of Art. Retired New York firefighter Dennis Smith - author of best-selling Report from Engine Co. 82 - describes Chilton's book as "a great and thrilling narrative" and says "most of all it made me realize just how universal the work and the culture of firefighters is.''
TO RIDE A RED ENGINE - By Dave Wilson ... This book tells you what it is like to do just that. The author, who served for 27 years, gives a fascinating account of his life as a London fireman. From attending the biggest fire in post-war London to achieving the Chief Officer's Commendation for bravery, this book takes you through the highs of saving lives to the lows of child deaths. Skilfully blending drama with farce, it will have you chuckling out loud. Described in American reviews as ''the best first-person account of firefighting ever!''
GREAT FIRES OF LONDON - By Neil Wallington ... London landmarks - King's Cross, Crystal Palace, Moorgate, Ladbroke Grove - have been the scenes of fires and emregencies that tested the professionalism and resolve of the fire service. The drama of these and scores of other incidents are brought sharply into focus in Great Fires of London by Neil Wallington, a book which traces the historical life and times of the London Fire Brigade from its origins in the early 19th century up to the present day.The book contains 187 prints and black and white photographs and 113 color photographs.
FIRE AND WATER - Anthology edited by H. S. Ingham ... A classic written and illustrated by London firefighters during the 1940-1941 Blitz. The book forms a unique record of one of the most fiery and dramatic periods of British History.
THE LONDON BLITZ: A FIREMAN'S TALE - By Cyril Demarne ... Prior to September 1939, the author had been fighting fires in the East End of London for 14 years. On the outbreak of war he became one of the nucleus of professional firemen preparing the Auxiliary Fire Service for the maelstrom of the Blitz. This work presents the true story of ordinary men and women in extraordinary circumstances who, with fortitude and great courage, became very far from ordinary.
