Former firefighter Charlie Bullas returns to visit London Road Fire Station for the first time since 1962!

As part of our ongoing refurbishment of London Road Fire Station, we recently welcomed a very special visitor back to this historic Manchester landmark.

Charlie carried out his training as a firefighter at London Road during the 1960s, when the building was still at the heart of Manchester’s fire service. More than simply a place of work, London Road Fire Station also provided accommodation for firefighters and their families, creating a close-knit community within its walls.

Earlier this year, Charlie’s son Jonathan contacted Allied London to arrange a surprise visit for his Dad. Charlie had shared many stories of his time living and training at the station, making the opportunity to return particularly meaningful for them both.

During his visit, Charlie returned to the spaces he once knew and relived his training days at the station.

Alongside our Site Based Project Manager Carl and Site Manager Mark, Charlie stood inside the original drill tower where he explained some of the training exercises firefighters would undertake there and recalled his passing-out parade, when hundreds of family members and friends gathered to mark the completion of the firefighters’ training.

His stories offered a fascinating first-hand insight into the building’s history and the people who once called it home.

As we continue our work to carefully refurbish this much-loved landmark, visits like Charlie’s provide an important reminder of the history and personal stories held within its walls. 

It was a privilege to welcome Charlie back and hear him share his memories of this extraordinary building.

Watch our video to hear more about Charlie’s memories of London Road Fire Station.