GOUROCK TOWN COUNCIL

MINUTES OF GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETINGS

August 1873 to September 1883

Information:-The Burgh was constituted in 1858 with the first election on the 8th May 1858

Page 99                 30/7/1875

Commissioner Stevenson called attention to the state of the fire hose and it was remitted to the Works

Committee to consider and report.

Page 145               21/7/1876

Commissioner Stevenson submitted an offer by Mr. Ramage, Glasgow for the supply of a hose and other requisites for the fire engine and it was remitted to Mr. Stevenson to obtain one or two offers from other persons in the trade.

Page 153               20/10/1876

Commissioner Stevenson submitted three offers received for a fire apparatus and the meeting authorised Mr. Macmaster, with the approval of the Committee, to purchase the necessary apparatus.

(Mr. Macmaster is Treasurer, Collector and Master of Works)

Page 156               22/12/1876

The Treasurer submitted to the meeting a report and estimate, showing that the cost of a fire hose and appurtenances, would amount to £50-3-4 and he was ordered to purchase the same.

Page 184               4/5/1877

Public Meeting in the Public School Room, John Street to adopt The General Police and Improvement (Scotland) Act 1862, Part 5 of which provides for The Prevention and extinction of Fires. (This Act will replace the Act of 1850).It was adopted at an adjourned meeting on 1/6/1877.

Page 199               22/6/1877

The clerk was instructed to communicate with the Secretary to the Insurance Company with which Drummond Cottage, recently destroyed by fire, was insured, with the view to getting them to pay the sum incurred to three men who assisted in extinguishing the fire.

Page 239               22/10/1877

It was remitted to the works committee to make enquiries as to forming a Fire Brigade for the Burgh, and to report.

Page 241               19/11/1877

In accordance with the recommendation of the Works Committee the Meeting instruct the Committee to arrange for the formation of a Fire Brigade on the terms recommended by them, to purchase the necessary implements and accoutrements and to form rules and regulations for the conduct of the brigade. The Meeting remitted to the Works Committee accordingly.

Page 243               17/12/1877

The minutes of the Works Committee of 24th and 28th November last, relative to the Fire Brigade, were read and approved of.

Page 352               17/12/1880

It was remitted to the Works Committee to consider the propriety of obtaining Helmets and certain other furnishings required for the Fire Brigade.

October 1883 to February 1896

Page 117               20/4/1886

Fire Brigade

Attention was called to the necessity of re-organising the Fire Brigade and it was remitted to the Works Committee to consider the whole matter and report.

Page 122               15/6/1886

Fire in Shore Street

Commissioner McWhirter called attention to the fire which took place in Morrison's Property in Shore Street and to the prompt and efficient assistance which had been rendered by Captain Bowling of the Squirrel and Captain Jet of the Daisy and their men in extinguishing the fire. The meeting unanimously agreed to record their thanks to these gentlemen and they instructed the clerk to communicate the terms of this minute to them.

Fire Brigade

The Meeting also acknowledged the readiness with which the services of the Fire Brigade were made available to the extinction of the fire.

Page 143               16/11/1886

Fire Brigade

Report by Firemaster

The convener of the Works Committee submitted a Report by the Firemaster and the same was submitted to the Works Committee for consideration. The Works Committee were authorised to accept Mr. D M Nelson's offer for valves and they were also authorised to purchase a Scour Pipe.

Page 267               18/3/1890

Minutes

Bailie Gunion and Commissioner Simpson, dissented from the Minutes of the Works Committee in so far as regards the resolution as to the Tunics for the Firemen, which they thought should be supplied.

Page 445               20/2/1894

Minutes

The following minutes were read and approved of:-

3.   The Works Committee of 22nd ult., and the 24th curt. except so far as relates to the Disinfecting House and Fire Brigade Station.

February 1896 to October 1899

Page 74                 5/11/1897

The following standing Committees were then appointed:-

(5)           The Fire Brigade Committee, with the power to manage all matters relative to the Fire Brigade and report there on, primo loco, to the Board in Committee consisting of Baillie Simpson, Commissioners Wilson and Hodge: Two a quorum, Bailie Simpson Convener.

Page 85                 21/12/1897

Minutes

The following minutes were read and approved of :-

(5)           The Fire Brigade Committee of 15th ult. and the 9th curt.

Page 87                 21/12/1897

Fire Brigade

Commissioner Hodge moved, seconded by Bailie Simpson and it was unanimously agreed to, that the Commissioners tender their thanks to Mr Taylor, the Superintendent of the Fire Brigade for the advice he had given, and the valuable services he had rendered to the Committee.

(At this time the Greenock Firemaster was a Superintendent Taylor and I think this is who is referred to above.)

Page 88                 18/1/1898

Minutes

The following minutes were read and approved of :-

(5)           The Fire Brigade Committee.

November 1899 to December 1900

Page 22a               8/12/1899

Fire Brigade Committee

The Firemen held their monthly Drill when the Fire Plugs were started from Craigbank, along Shore Street to Larkfield Road. All the Fire Plugs were found to be in good order with the exception of one opposite the U.P. Church, the box of which was full of water. The Committee gave instructions to have the water drained off.

Page 27a               15/12/1899

Fire Brigade Committee

The Firemaster  submitted his Report Book and Annual Report.

The Accounts, including the account of Salaries etc. of Brigade were passed for payment

Page 35                 19/12/1899

Council Meeting

Fire Brigade

Wages of Firemen

Submitted minute of the Fire Brigade Committee of 15th curt.

Commissioner Duley seconded by Commissioner Wilson moved that the minute be approved of.

Commissioner Steel seconded by Commissioner Peacock moved that the account therein referred to for wages to Burgh workmen acting as Firemen be remitted to the Finance Committee.

On a division three voted for the motion and five for the amendment.

The amendment was declared carried and it was agreed to authorise payment of the accounts referred to in the Minute.

It was also agreed that in future Burgh workmen attending fires in the day time be paid Firemen's wages less their ordinary wages.

Page 38                 29/12/1899

Fire Brigade Committee

Payments to Burgh Workmen

The Committee recommended that 8/8 and 2/9 be paid to Edw. M'Grath and Pat Docherty respectively for assisting at Fires.

The Committee further recommended that 2/6 be paid to persons who are first in giving notice of outbreaks of Fire - (Burgh workmen and Firemen excluded) - and that a similar sum be paid to the Policeman who rings the Free Church bell as an intimation of fire.

Page 64                 19/1/1900

Fire Brigade Committee

The Brigade held their monthly Drill and tested the Fire Plugs in Larkfield Road, Cardwell Road and Cove Road. The Fire Plugs were found in good order but the water pressure in Cardwell Road was very deficient. The Surveyor was instructed to investigate and report.

Page 77                 7/3/1900

Fire Brigade Committee

The Fire Brigade held their monthly Drill and tested Fire Plugs in Moorfield Road, Victoria Road and Barrhill Road.

The water pressure in Moorfield Road was found quite inadequate for Fire extinguishing purposes and the Committee recommended that a 5 inch main be laid in place of the present 3 inch pipe from the west end of Barrhill Road to the lower end of Moorfield Road.

Page 108               28/4/1900

Fire Brigade Committee

The Fire Brigade held their 5th drill for the year, the route taken being by Shore Street and Cardwell Road to the east end returning by Cove Road and by Barrhill Road to the Car Terminus returning by Albert Road to the Fire Station. The Fire Station and appliances were found in good order.

Page 207               9/11/1900

Council Meeting

Fire Brigade Committee

Report by Firemaster

Commissioner Wilson submitted report by the Firemaster.

I have decided to only make a note of certain entries from now on as a lot of entries are The Minutes of a date were read and approved or The monthly drill was held and the following Fire Plugs were tested etc.

There is now one typed book for each year.

1901

Page 89                 25/9/1901

Fire Brigade Committee

Hose Cart

The Committee recommended that the cart should be put into proper repair.

1902

Page 25                 12/3/1902

Fire Brigade Committee

Fire Appliances

The Committee gave instructions for the repair of spare helmets. All the appliances were found in good order.

1903

Page 94                 26/11/1903

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

It was recommended to the Fire Brigade Committee with full powers to fill up the vacancies in the list of firemen, and also increase the number of firemen, if they considered this advisable.

Page 100               17/12/1903

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

The Convener reported that the Committee had filled the vacancies in the list of firemen, and had appointed additional firemen. The Council approved

Page 101               18/12/1903

Fire Brigade Committee

Drill

The Brigade tested Fire Plugs .......

Overalls &c. for Firemen

The Surveyor submitted a sample of cloth for Firemen's Overall Trousers. The Committee approved the same provided a cloth of darker colour and equal quality could be obtained. The Surveyor was instructed to purchase 25 yds. of rope for the Brigade.

Fire Brigade Committee Meetings

September 1897 to September 1899

Separate book

22/9/1897

It was agreed that Commissioner Simpson along with the Firemaster should arrange with W Taylor Greenock to purchase the following articles viz :-

1200 feet Rob Roy Hose                     2/- per yard

14 Pairs couplings                                10/- per pair

2 Directors

3 Helmets

Ladders

Alterations to carriage (Rebuilding the carriage)

Sundry Tools, Belts etc.

It was remitted to the Convener along with Commissioner Hodge and the Firemaster to arrange about the alterations requiring to be made in the cart.

The Committee visited the new Fire Brigade Station and expressed their satisfaction as to the suitability of the place.

15/11/1897

The Convener was directed to arrange with W Buchanan of Greenock for the supplying of four ladders each 6' 6'' in length.

9/12/1897

The Committee examined the new cart, hose etc. and were satisfied with same.

8/2/1898

Fire Alarm

The Surveyor submitted a letter received from the Deacon's Court of the Free church, granting the Commissioners the use of the Bell as a fire alarm. (This permission was sought so that the Firemen could be called together in a much shorter time than under the present system of looking for each man.)

Horsing Machine

The Surveyor was instructed to communicate with the Cab Hirers informing them that a sum of 5/- would be paid for the first hour of a suitable man and horse for the hose cart and 2/6 for each hour after.

1/4/1898

It was agreed to recommend that Fireman James Melville get a fee of three shillings, for extinguishing a vent that was on fire at Kempock Street he being called by the Police. It was resolved to take instructions of the Board as to further obligations in regard to vents on fire.

12/12/1898

The Committee recommended that the whole of the Fire Brigade be reorganised under the present superintendent and that the staff be reduced to four men exclusive of the Superintendent.

5/1/1899

The committee appointed the following men as members of the Brigade viz.

George H. Russell                Chief

John Mc Ewan                      No.1

James Melville                      No.2

John Watson                        No.3

Alex Taylor                           No.4

The Retaining fees for the Members of the Brigade will be Chief £5 and the ordinary members £2-5-0 per annum.

Rule No.3 and 5 were altered and are now as follows.

The Superintendent shall be empowered to engage and discharge the Firemen, subject to the approval of the committee. It will also be his duty to see that the hose and apparatus are kept in good working order and for this purpose the Firemen shall attend every night alternately and shall subject to the orders of the Superintendent overhaul the same.

They shall turn out for practice once in every two months in the presence of the Committee and be paid the following rates for each turn out viz :- Superintendent 4/-, Firemen 2/6.

In case of fire each member shall be notified there of and be bound to attend there at as soon as possible. The members who attend shall, in case of Fire, be paid the following sums viz :- Superintendent 4/- for the first hour, 2/- for the second and 1/3 for every hour thereafter, each Fireman 3/- for the first hour, 2/- for the second and 1/- for every hour thereafter.

The Members of Committee agreed to attend to the drills, taking a month at a time and in rotation.

1904

Page 81c/Sub Page 9          5/5/1904

The Accounts for the Year ended 5/5/1904 showed the Fire Department cost £55-11-3.

Pay                                                                         £21-  1-  3

Rent of Station, Taxes and Insurance               £14-17-00

Repairing Fire Plugs                                            £  8-12-10

Other Expenses                                                    £11-  0-  2

                                                                                £55-11-  3

Page 95                 8/11/1904

Works Committee

Burgh Workshop and Fire Brigade Station

The Master of Works was instructed to prepare and submit a plan and estimate of the cost of erecting a Fire Brigade Station, Mortuary, Cart Shed and a Burgh Workshop, on the Council's property in Royal Street.

1905

Page 6                    19/1/1905

Council in Committee

Burgh Workshop and Fire Brigade Station &c.

Submitted plan of Burgh Workshop and Fire Brigade Station &c., as laid before the last Meeting of the Works Committee. It was agreed to approve of this plan with the exception of the dwelling houses and Mortuary shown there on.

Page 11                 1/2/1905

Fire Brigade Committee

Firemaster's Report

The committee having considered the report of the Firemaster dated 26th January 1905 agreed to make the following recommendations :-

New Lamps:- That two Candle Lamps be provided for the Hose Cart, and also four new fireman's lamps and two fireman's axes and a set of coupling keys, and that any damaged hose be repaired.

Hose Cart:- The drivers seat be set forward so as to better balance the cart.

Fireman's Clothing:- The Committee having examined same and found it much worn and beyond repair, recommended that a new set of tunics be provided.

Visits to Fire Stations

On 24th January the Committee visited the Fire Brigade Stations at Greenock and Port Glasgow.

At Greenock the Committee were received by Mr Taylor, Firemaster, and shown the whole appliances, including the horsing of the different machines, Hand Pumps, Washing, Drying and Storing of Hose, Electric Bell connections to firemen's houses, &c. The Committee were also shown the working of the "May Oatway" patent automatic Fire Alarm as recently installed in Greenock Woollen Mills.

The Firemaster discussed with the Committee the working of the Brigade and the calling out of the auxiliary firemen. He is strongly of the opinion that one or two members of the Brigade should live on the premises, so as to be ready for any call that might be made during night.

The Committee were shown the Port Glasgow Station by one of the Council and Town Clerk. The present station is found inadequate for the burgh, and a new one is about to be erected. The appliances are much similar to those in Gourock.

On 1st February the Burgh Surveyor visited the Glasgow Central Fire Station and was met by Mr Paterson, Chief Superintendent of the City Fire Brigade, and shown over the whole of the extensive premises. Mr Paterson very kindly explained the working of the station in detail, including the workshops, &c., and supplied full information regarding the fitting up of a new station.

Mr Paterson is of the opinion that a Fire Station cannot be considered fully equipped unless living accommodation is provided on the premises for say two men. As he explained a large percentage of house fires can easily be extinguished by two men if got at in time. He also recommends the providing of a hand pump, and a hand hose cart to carry, say, six lengths of hose and keys &c. This would save time waiting for a horse and is quite suitable for fires within, say, a third of a mile circuit of the Station.

New Fire Station

The Committee recommended that the following appliances be provided for the New Station :-

(1)           Washing Trough for Hose.

(2)           Fireman's Hand pump.

(3)           Electric Bell alarms connected from Station to Police Station and Firemaster's house.

(4)           Drying of Hose by means of a pole or other means considered most practicable.

Page 43                 20/4/1905

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade Station &c.

The Convener of the Works Committee reported that the following offers for the erection of the Burgh Workshop and Fire Brigade Station to be erected in Royal Street had been found by the Measurers to be the lowest, namely :-

Mason Work                        R Aitkenhead & Son                                                           £472-12-  3

Joiner Work                          David Tweedle                                                                     £161-  7-  4

Concrete Work                     John Callander                                                                      £  49-15-11

Glazier Work                         J Grieve Graham                                                                    £   4-   3-  9

Steel Windows                     Fred Braby & Co.                                                 £ 20-   9-  6

He also reported that the above offers had been accepted, so as to allow the work to be proceeded with at once. The Council approved.

Page 49                 2/5/1905

Fire Brigade Committee

Hand Pump

The Committee accepted the offer of Messrs. Shand, Mason & Co. for above.

15/5/1905

The Annual Accounts of the above date showed assets of £31-16-10 for Fire Extinguishing Apparatus.

Page 93                 19/9/1905

Fire Brigade Committee

The Committee had under consideration the better equipment of the Brigade, and made the following recommendations :-

(1)           That a lamp be erected in front of the Fire Station and glazed with ruby glass with the letters "Fire Station" thereon.

(2)           That an Electric Alarm be fitted up at the Fire Station communicating with bells fitted in the Firemaster's house, Police Office, nearest resident fireman, and the house of Mr Cameron, Cab Hirer.

(3)           That plates lettered "Fireman" be provided and fixed at each of the Firemen's houses, and that each fireman be supplied with a suitable life line.

(4)           That one of the firemen be resident in a house in Royal Street as near as may be opposite the Fire Station, and that for this obligation the taxes on the house rent be paid by the Town Council.

(5)           That the firemen be instructed in Ambulance Work, Dr Stewart having kindly offered to act as instructor, and

(6)           That in the near future a Fire Escape Ladder, 40ft in length, mounted on a light hand cart be provided.

Page 96                 28/9/1905

Monthly Meeting of Council

Minutes

The following minutes with relative Appendices were submitted, held as read, and approved of :-

(9)           The Fire Brigade Committee of 19th inst., with exception of the 6th recommendation therein contained, and

£900 to be borrowed for the purpose of defraying the cost of constructing a Fire Brigade Station and other works and buildings in the estimate.

Page 129               5/12/1905

Fire Brigade Committee

The Committee had under consideration the better equipment of the Fire Brigade and agreed to make the following recommendations :-

(1)           The purchase of two lengths of Canvas Hose and four setts of Hose Couplings, two Hand Hatchets, and two Candle Lamps for the machine.

(2)           That the machine be altered in the springs and a driver's seat fixed in front, and that the harness be overhauled.

(3)           That instead of fixing an Electric Bell outside the Fire Station, a brass plate be placed on the wall stating that Alarms of Fire are to be given at the Police Office.

(4)           That Members of the Fire Brigade must reside within the area bounded by John Street, Binnie Street, Castle Brae, Kempock Street, and Shore Street to John Street, and that they must be employed within the Burgh except on special occasions, notice of which must be given to the Firemaster, and

(5)           The Surveyor be instructed to ascertain if one of the houses opposite the Fire Station can be rented by a member of the Brigade at Whitsunday.

The Committee further recommended that a wash-hand basin be fitted up in the Fire Station for the use of the men.

Drill

The Brigade turned out and tested Fire Plugs in...........................

Page 134               21/12/1905

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

Letter from Mr D. B. M'Geoch, Port Glasgow, dated 20th inst. submitted, and remitted to the Fire Brigade Committee to consider and report.

1906

The Annual Accounts for year ending 15/5/1906 showed :-

Payments               New Fire Station and Burgh Store                     £367-8-9.

Page 117               22/11/1906

Minutes of Town Council

Fire Brigade Committee    Al Fresco Concerts Committee

Councillor Walker having stated that he adhered to his resignation of the Convenership of the two Committees above mentioned, Councillor Glencross moved that both Committees be disbanded. The motion was seconded by Councillor Johnston, and was unanimously agreed to.

Page 122               29/11/1906

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

It was remitted to a Sub Committee, consisting of the Provost, Bailie Duley (Convener) and Judge Tarbet, to arrange for Drills &c., of the Brigade.

Page 129               17/12/1906

Fire Brigade Sub Committee

Rules &c.

It was remitted to the Town Clerk and the Surveyor to revise the present rules of the Fire Brigade and to have same printed.

The Surveyor was instructed to procure a book to be kept in the Fire Station for recording the attendances of the Brigade at Drills, Fires, &c.

1907

Page 11                 5/2/1907

Fire Brigade Sub Committee

Hose Cart

It is recommended that a brake be fitted on the Cart.

Page 22                 5/3/1907

Fire Brigade Sub Committee

Brake for the Hose Cart

It was agreed to accept the offer of John Mitchell, Coachbuilder, Greenock, to supply and fit a brake on the Hose Cart.

Page 108               3/10/1907

Works Committee

Fire Brigade

Submitted account from the Firemaster in connection with the attendance of the Brigade at a fire outwith the Burgh. It was agreed that this account should be forwarded to the owner of the property in which the fire occurred.

Page 123               8/11/1907

Burgh of Gourock

The following Committees were appointed :- The Fire Brigade Committee.

1908

Page 25                 24/2/1908

Fire Brigade Committee

Fire Station Appliances

The Committee recommended that two Belt Lamps, one Electric Lamp and a half hide of leather be obtained.

The Surveyor was instructed to make enquires re Fire Escape Ladders, and to report.

Page 32                 12/3/1908

Council in Committee

Death of Firemaster

Resolution of Sympathy

On the motion of Balie Brown, Convener of the Fire Brigade Committee, it was unanimously resolved to record the deep regret of the Council at the death of Mr George Russell, who had for the last twenty years been Master of the local Fire Brigade, and their sincere sympathy with Mrs Russell and family in their bereavement. The Clerk was instructed to forward a copy of the resolution to Mrs Russell

Page 35                 19/3/1908

Fire Brigade Committee

Appointment of Firemaster &c.

The Committee recommended that John M'Ewan, Burgh Foreman, be appointed Firemaster, and that James Melville be promoted to first hand, and his wages be increased one pound per annum. They also recommended that the vacancy in the Brigade be filled up by the appointment of David Ritchie, Joiner, 23 Bath Street.

Page 36                 19/3/1908

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

Balie Brown submitted the recommendations of the Fire Brigade Committee as contained in the minute of their meeting on 19th inst. On the motion of Treasurer Johnston, the recommendations were unanimously approved of.

Page 51                 16/4/1908

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

The Convener of the Fire Brigade Committee was authorised to procure a jacket and helmet for the use of the Firemaster.

Page 79b               22/6/1908

Fire Brigade Committee

Fireman's Caps &c.

The Surveyor was instructed to obtain caps for each of the firemen, and also metal numbers for their tunics.

Page 104               14/9/1908

Fire Brigade Committee

Alarm Bell

The Committee recommended that an Alarm Bell be fixed in the Office of Mr Cameron, Carriage-hirer.

Hand Pump

The Committee agreed to purchase an additional length of hose for the hand pump.

Page 144               10/12/1908

Fire Brigade Committee

False Alarm

The Firemaster rung the alarm from the Police Station calling out the horse for the Hose Cart. Seven minutes after the alarm was given, the horse reached the Fire Station from Mr Cameron's stable in John Street.

1909

Page 83b/3            6/4/1909

Report of Annual Meeting of Convention of Burghs held in Glasgow

Cost of Extinguishing Fires

The remit to a Committee to endeavour to secure powers to enable Town Councils to recover from the owner, or, if thought fit, from the occupier of premises within in which any fire shall occur, such reasonable sum of money as they shall consider just, not exceeding in all £15, or whatever less sum is equal to one half of the expense of the Fire Brigade attending such fire, was renewed.

Page 131               16/12/1909

Fire Brigade Committee

Chimney Fires

The Committee recommended that authority be given to slaters employed by local tradesmen to extinguish any chimney fires they may discover, or to which their attention has been directed by the Police, and that a fee of 2s 6d be paid for each such fire so extinguished.

1910

Page 30                 24/3/1910

Council in Committee

Chimney Fires

The clerk was instructed to send a copy of the Fire Brigade Committee's recommendation of 16th December last to the Master Slaters in the Burgh, and also to advertise the same in the "Greenock Telegraph".

Page 71                 30/6/1910

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

Bailie M'Pherson having reported as to the desire of the County Council to obtain the services of the Fire Brigade in cases of fire in the neighbourhood of the Burgh, it was remitted to the Fire Brigade committee to consider the matter and report.

Page 80a/37         15/5/1910

Accounts

These showed that the Assets of the Fire Department Appliances were £245-9-0. In previous years it was £31-16-10 for Fire Extinguishing Apparatus.

1911

Page 14                 26/1/1911

Fire Brigade Committee

Overalls for Fire Brigade

The Committee having examined three estimates for Overalls for the Fire Brigade, and relative samples, it was resolved, on the motion of Councillor Dixon, seconded by the Convener, to recommend that the offer of Mr James Lennox, Clothier, Gourock, be accepted.

Page 38                 16/3/1911

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

The Clerk reported meeting with Captain Harding in regard to the desire of the County Council to arrange for the services of the Burgh Fire Brigade being available in cases of County fires in the neighbourhood of the Burgh. It was resolved to remit the matter to the Fire Brigade Committee to consider and report.

Page 50                 13/4/1911

Fire Brigade Committee

Claim for Damage to Clothing

The Committee recommended that the sum of 10s be paid to each of two members of the Brigade for damage done to clothing at a recent fire.

Page 70                 25/5/1911

Fire Brigade Committee

Private Telephone

It was remitted to the Master of Works to obtain and submit estimates for a Private Telephone between the Police Office and the Fire Brigade Station

Fire Brigade

The Committee considered the remit made to them by the Council in Committee on 16th March last, and interviewed Captain Harding in regard to the desire of the County Council for the services of the Burgh Fire Brigade being available in cases of County fires in the neighbourhood of the Burgh. It was unanimously resolved to report that the County Council might be willing, (1) to pay all expenses in connection with the services of the Brigade, in cases where the Brigade was called out to County fires, and (2) to insure against accidents to the members of the fire Brigade and third parties. The Committee were of the opinion that, if any arrangement was to come to with the County Council, it should include a provision for the County making an annual payment towards the expense of keeping up the Burgh Fire Brigade.

Page 74                 1/6/1911

Fire Brigade Committee

Hose

The Committee instructed the Surveyor to order 200ft. of new Hose with couplings to suit.

Fireman

The Surveyor was instructed to ask a member of the Brigade to find within one month, a residence within the radius from the Fire Station fixed by the Council, failing which to dispense with his services.

Page 94                 10/8/1911

Fire Brigade Committee

Firemen

The Fireman referred to in the minute of Meeting of the Committee of 1st June last not having found a residence within the radius from the Fire Station fixed by the Council, it was remitted to the Burgh Surveyor to engage Arthur Russell, Slater, as a member of the Fire Brigade in his place, and that on the usual terms and conditions.

Fire Brigade Station

Telephone

The Surveyor having reported misunderstanding in regard to the offer of the National Telephone Coy. Ltd., for the private telephone between the Police Office and the Fire Station, it was remitted to him to accept the offer of Messrs McMorland & Co., Greenock, (it now being the cheapest) for such telephone, and to have the work completed as soon as possible.

Page 120               28/9/1911

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

Councillor McCallum submitted report of meeting on 5th inst. of the Fire Brigade Committee with a Sub-Committee appointed by the County Council of Renfrewshire. He moved the adoption of the report, and this was unanimously agreed to.

Page 120a

Report of the Fire Brigade Committee

Your Fire Brigade Committee report that on 5th inst., they had a Conference with a Sub-Committee appointed by the County Council of Renfrewshire.

States those attending.

The representatives of the County Council having visited the Fire Station and inspected the Fire Appliances, with which they expressed their satisfaction, unanimously agreed to recommend the County Council (1) to provide a petrol fire pump, to be housed in the Gourock Fire Station, and to be used in connection with County fires in the neighbourhood of the Burgh, (2) to make the Town council an annual payment of £30 towards the expense of keeping up the Burgh Fire Brigade, Fire Station, and Fire Appliances, (3) to pay the Burgh Firemen according to the scale at present in force in the Burgh for each County fire attended by them, and (4) to insure the members of the Burgh Fire Brigade against accidents in connection with County fires. The County Council also stated that, if they so desired, the Town Council could have the use of their petrol pump for fires in the Burgh.

Your Committee agreed to recommend the Council to allow the Burgh Fire Brigade to attend County fires in the neighbourhood of the Burgh on the above terms, on the understanding that the Agreement with the County Council was to remain in force for a period of years, and there after from year to year until either party gave written notice to the contrary.

After the County Council have considered the recommendation of their Committee, Mr McClure is to write the Clerk stating the terms and conditions of the Agreement, so that, if the Town Council approve, the Agreement may be completed.

The Council will keep in view that, if the proposed Agreement is completed, it will be necessary to appoint two additional Firemen, so that, should the Brigade be called out to a County fire, some of it's members would remain in the Burgh and be available in the event of a fire breaking out.

Page 157               30/11/1911

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

On the suggestion of Councillor Adam, the Convener of the Fire Brigade Committee was asked to get his Committee to consider as to the advisability of procuring a supply of Hand Fire Extinguishers.

1912

Page 55                 23/4/1912

Fire Brigade Committee

Fire Extinguishers

The Committee, by a majority, agreed to recommend the Council to purchase a number of Citex fire Extinguishers for use in the Fire Station and in the Burgh Chambers.

Page 58                 25/4/1912

Council in Committee

Fire Extinguishers

The recommendation contained in the Minute of the Fire Brigade Committee of 23rd inst. was considered. Councillor McCallum was of the opinion the recommendation should not be agreed to, but the majority of the Council approved of the adoption of the recommendation, and remitted to the Fire Brigade Committee to procure a number not exceeding six Fire Extinguishers.

Page 89                 1/8/1912

Works Committee

Fire Extinguishing Appliances

Submitted letter, dated 27th June last, from Mr W. McClure, Clerk to the Lower District Committee of the County Council, in regard to the proposed arrangements with the County Council. The Clerk was instructed to report as soon as he heard further from Mr McClure on the subject.

Page 107a/11

Abstract of accounts for year ended 15/5/1912

Fire Department

Pay                                                                         £31-  17-  3

Maintenance of Fire Station                               £14-  11- 11

Engines and Appliances                                     £16-  11-   3

Other Expenses                                                    £  3-  12-   6

                                                                                £66-  12- 11                            £66-  12- 11

Loans

Paid to Sinking fund                                            £  5-   2-  00

Interest                                                                  £  4-   8-  00

                                                                                £  9-  10- 10                            £  9-  10- 10

Total                                                                                                                       £76-    3-   9

Assets

Fire Department Appliances                              £280-   9-  2

1913

Page 123a             16/10/1913

Meeting of Councillors with Local County Councillors

Fire Station

Bailie Dixon referred to the negotiations with the County Council some time ago but Captain Duncan stated that the County had now equipped a Fire Station at Inverkip, and that the proposed agreement with the Town Council was not likely to be proceeded with further.

Page 156               10/12/1913

Fire Brigade Committee

Fireman's Tunics

The Burgh Surveyor was instructed to take in offers for new tunics for the Firemen.

Page 160               17/12/1913

Fire Brigade Committee

Celluloid Articles

Submitted letter dated 16th inst., from the Scottish Office re-storage and exhibition of celluloid articles. The Committee did not think it necessary to take any action.

Page 161

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

The meeting authorised payment of wages amounting to £33-1-9 conform to Account initialled by the Convener of the Fire Brigade Committee.

1914

Page 29                 19/2/1914

Council in Committee

Firemen's Tunics

The Convener of the Fire Brigade Committee reported that his Committee recommended the acceptance of the offer of Messrs J. E. Rowan & Co. for the new tunics referred to in the Committee's Minute of date 10th December last.

Page 52                 1/4/1914

Fire Brigade Committee

Hose Cart

The Committee recommended that the horsing of the cart receive immediate consideration of the Council.

Page 67                 16/4/1914

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade Committee

Hose Cart

The Convener of the Fire Brigade Committee reported that he had arranged with Mr Kennedy for the horsing of the Hose Cart, on the same conditions as obtained with the late Mr Cameron.

Page 102               18/6/1914

Council in Committee

Post Office Telephones

Fire Alarm Bells

Submitted letter, dated 9th inst., from the Contract Manager, Glasgow, intimating that the Council's present contract for fire alarm bells would be terminated on 28th November, 1915.

Fire Brigade

Some conversation having taken place regarding the recent fire in Tarbet Street, the Convener of the Fire Brigade Committee mentioned that he had arranged a meeting of that Committee for Monday night

Page 105               22/6/1914 (Monday)

Fire Brigade Committee

Fire Brigade

The Committee having expressed the opinion that the present arrangements for the horsing of the Hose Cart were unsatisfactory it was unanimously resolved to remit to the Convener and the Burgh Surveyor to obtain and submit estimates for a small motor fire tender.

It was also unanimously resolved to recommend that two lengths of hose be obtained.

Page 111               25/6/1914

Fire Brigade Committee

Fire Brigade

Two tenders for a small motor fire tender were submitted and considered. The Committee were unanimously of the opinion that the cost involved was too great, and resolved to recommend that a horse should be purchased and stabled at the Fire Station, and that an arrangement should be come to with the Gas Committee whereby such horse should cart from the Railway Station the coal required at the Gas Works.

Fire Alarms

It was unanimously resolved to recommend that three fire alarms should be fitted up, one in Larkfield road, one in Kempock street and one near the foot of Hillside Road.

Page 112               26/6/1914

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

Councillor Maclean moved that the first recommendation of the Fire Brigade Committee as contained in the Minute of their Meeting this evening be agreed to. The motion was seconded by Councillor Gossman.

After some discussion, it was resolved that a Special Meeting of the Council in Committee be convened for Thursday first, when the matter would be further considered and disposed of.

Page 115               1/7/1914

Special Meeting of Council

Fire Brigade

The first recommendation of the Fire Brigade Committee as contained in the Minute of their Meeting on 25th ulto, having been considered, Councillor Maclean moved the adoption thereof. The motion was seconded by Treasurer Williamson. After some discussion, Councillor McCallum moved as an amendment that the matter be remitted back to the Committee so that they could consider and report as to the probable cost of the proposed horse, including upkeep and housing. The amendment was not seconded, and the motion declared carried.

It was suggested that the existing shelter in the Old Public Park should be removed to the ground in Royal Street belonging to the Gas Committee, and a plan of the proposed re-erection was submitted showing temporary stabling for the horse. After some discussion the plan was, on the motion of the Provost, seconded by Councillor Maclean, approved of, and the Clerk was instructed to send a copy thereof to the Estate Office for Major Darroch's approval. Before the motion was agreed to, Councillor McCallum moved as an amendment that the walls of the erection be brick and that the roof be slated. The amendment was, however, not seconded.

Page 126               13/8/1914

Fire Brigade Committee

Fire Brigade

The Committee having considered application by members of the Fire Brigade for an increase in wages, it was, on the motion of the Convener, seconded by Treasurer Williamson, unanimously resolved to recommend that an increase of ten shillings be made in the annual retaining fee allowed to each of the members of the Fire Brigade.

It was, on the motion of Councillor Shearer, seconded by Bailie Adam, unanimously resolved to recommend that the offer of Messrs McGregor & Co., Dundee, for two lengths of "Rob Roy" hose should be accepted.

It was remitted to the Burgh Surveyor to arrange with John Christie, Plumber, to act as a member of the Brigade during the temporary absence of Jas. M'Farlan, who had been called out as a member of the Territorial Forces.

The Committee were also of the opinion it would be well to have the Burgh Surveyor's house connected by telephone with the Council Chambers, so that the Police could advise him of any outbreak of fire in the Burgh.

Page 135               27/8/1914

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

Submitted letter, dated 24th inst., from Messrs. M. F. Dunlop Sons & Boyd, stating that Major Darroch had no objections to the Council's proposal to remove the shed presently standing on the old public park and to re-erect same on the Royal Street ground, on the understanding that, in the construction of the brick front to Royal Street, similar bricks would be used to those in the other buildings belonging to the Council fronting that street.

Page 181               3/12/1914

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

Public Park

The Convener of the Works Committee having reported in regard to the offers submitted to the meeting of the Works Committee on 12th ulto., it was unanimously resolved to accept the offer of Messrs. R. Aitkenhead & Sons, Builders, Greenock, and Messrs. P. & R. Fleming & Co., Iron Merchants, Glasgow (the lowest). The Master of Works was instructed accordingly.

1915

Page 4                    14/1/1915

Fire Brigade Committee

Firemaster

Fire Brigade

On the suggestion of the Convener, it was unanimously resolved to recommend :-

(1)           That Mr John McEwen, Firemaster, should be invited to attend future meetings of the Committee, to whom he should be directly responsible, and that his salary be increased as from 1st inst. by two pounds a year.

(2)           That John McEwen, Jnr., be appointed to fill the vacancy in the Fire Brigade, and

(3)           That the Regulations, with revised list of positions of fire plugs, be printed for the use of the Committee and of the Members of the Fire Brigade.

The Convener explained that the only reason for the proposed change in connection with the Firemaster's duties was the desirability of relieving to some extent the hands of Mr. Duthie.

Page 5                    14/1/1915

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

Firemaster

On the motion of Councillor Gossman, the first and third recommendations contained in the Minute of the Meeting of the Fire Brigade Committee of this date were unanimously approved of, and the filling of the vacancy in the Fire Brigade was remitted back to that Committee with full powers.

Page 28                 18/2/1915

Fire Brigade Committee

Fire Plugs

The convener having welcomed the Firemaster, it was remitted to the Burgh Surveyor and him to revise the list of the positions of the Fire Plugs in the Burgh, and to report.

Firemen

It was unanimously resolved to appoint John Christie as a Fireman in place of David Ritchie, who is now employed in Greenock, and to appoint John McEwen, Junior, as a temporary fireman during the absence on active service of James M'Farlan. It was remitted to the Clerk to arrange for having the telephone alarm bell removed from Ritchie's and fitted up in Christie's house.

Fires

The Firemaster reported that the Brigade had on 17th inst. turned out to a small fire in a caravan in the yard at the Slaughter house.

Page 59                 15/4/1915

Council in Committee

Firemen

The Convener of the Fire Brigade Committee suggested that the Council should give permission to reinstate David Ritchie (whose disqualification is now at an end) as an additional member of the Fire Brigade. It was unanimously resolved to give the permission desired.

Page 78                 27/5/1915

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

It was remitted to the Convener of the Fire Brigade Committee to have the wheels of the Hose Cart renewed.

Page 155               9/12/1915

Fire Brigade Committee

Accounts

Accounts including salaries amounting to £45-13-3 were examined and recommended for payment

Firemen

It was unanimously resolved to appoint, as from and after 31st current,, James Melville, Jnr., as a fireman in place of James Humphreys, who is now on active service with His Majesty's Forces.

Fires

The Firemaster submitted his report on the fires in the Burgh during the year, which was considered satisfactory.

1916

Page 2                    6/1/1916

Gas Committee

Cartages

It was unanimously resolved to recommend that a horse be purchased to assist in the cartage of coals from the Station to the Gas Works, that an arrangement should be come to with the Fire Brigade Committee for its being used in connection with the Fire Brigade, and also that a Committee, consisting of the provost and the Convener and Sub-Convener of the Gas Committee, be appointed to make the purchase, with full powers.

Page 16                 27/1/1916

Council in Committee

Gas Cartages

The Convener of the Gas Committee having reported that the Sub-Committee appointed on 6th ulto., had purchased a horse, it was remitted to him to procure a suitable cart, and such harness as he considered necessary.

Page 27                 2/3/1916

Gas Committee

Horse

It was remitted to the Convener and the Convener of the Fire Brigade Committee to consider as to the charge to be made against the Fire Brigade for the use of the Burgh horse, and to report to the Council in Committee.

Page 41                 3/4/1916

Fire Brigade Committee

Drill

The Firemen tested the fire plugs in Bath Street, Broomberry Drive, Royal Street, John Street and King Street, all of which were in good working order. It was reported that a Fire Brigade Collar and Traces had been purchased for the horse, and it was remitted to the Firemaster to obtain reins, bridle, and whip required to complete the horse's outfit.

Fire Brigade

It was resolved to add James Docherty to the Fire Brigade and to order the usual uniform for him. It was also resolved that an alarm bell be fitted up between the Police Office and the Gas Works.

Page 151               14/12/1916

Fire Brigade Committee

Firemaster's Report

The Firemaster submitted book containing particulars of fires, &c., from which it appeared the Fire Brigade had, during the year, been called out to seven fires in the Burgh.

1917

Page 50                 4/5/1917

Fire Brigade Committee

Drill

The Firemen, with the assistance of six Boy Scouts, tested the fire plugs..............................

Fire Brigade

It was resolved to recommend that from and after 15th inst. an annual payment of six pounds be credited to the Gas Trust for the services of the horse belonging to that Trust for drills, fires &c.

Page 61                 24/5/1917

Fire Brigade Committee

Fire Plugs

The Convener reported that the Firemaster had purchased six fire plugs at the price of £7  5s. The Committee approved and passed the amount for payment.

Salaries

Submitted applications by the Firemaster and the Firemen for increases of their salaries. It was unanimously resolved to recommend that, as from 15th inst., the annual salaries should be as follows :-

Firemaster, £8; Assistant Firemaster, £4; and Firemen, £3 each.

Page 85                 9/8/1917

Finance Committee

Ambulance

Having considered report by Inspector King, dated 9th inst., it was, on the motion of Bailie M'Callum, seconded by the Provost, unanimously resolved to recommend that, in future, the horse belonging to the Gas Trust be used when the Burgh Ambulance was required.

Page 140               13/12/1917

Fire Brigade Committee

Firemaster's Report

The Firemaster submitted book containing particulars of fires, &c., from which it appeared the Brigade had during the year been called out to ten fires in the Burgh.

Firemen

The Convener having reported that four of the firemen were now on active service, it was remitted to the Firemaster and him to make arrangements for the temporary filling up of vacancies, and, if possible to arrange for having the houses of temporary firemen connected by telephone with the Police Office.

1918

Page 28                 28/2/1918

Fire Brigade Committee

Fire Brigade

The Committee resolved to recommend that Donald Orr, Plumber, be appointed a temporary member of the Fire Brigade, and that the other temporary vacancy should not meantime be filled up.

It was reported that the Post Office Authorities could not at present undertake the fitting up of the fire alarm bells in the houses of the temporary firemen. The Committee were of the opinion this was not satisfactory, that Mr. M'Morland should be asked whether he could undertake the fitting up of the alarm bells, and that it should be remitted to the Convener to ascertain and report on what terms the services of the Greenock Fire Brigade could be had, if thought necessary.

Fire Plugs

It was reported that a Fire Plug in Golf Course Road had been covered through a land slip. The Committee asked the Master of Works to have the plug cleared as soon as possible.

Page 38                 21/3/1918

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

The Convener of the Fire Brigade Committee submitted the following report :-

"Your Committee report that four district inspections of fire plugs have been carried through during the past five weeks by the Brigade. The plugs were found to be all in order with the exception of one situated in Albert Road. This will be put right at the beginning of next week, and will necessitate the cutting off of the water supply from the Pierhead westwards for one night.

The Committee would draw attention of the Council to the plug situated in Binnie Street, opposite the new School. The plug is meanwhile affected by a reducing valve to such an extent as to render it almost useless for fire extinguishing purposes for the adjoining properties.

At the request of the Firemaster we have to ask the Council to provide a length of sixty feet of one and a half inch rope and also four portable lighting lamps, of a type suitable for attaching to the belts of the firemen while in use.

It will be within the knowledge of the Council that the horse has not been available at any time during the recent inspections. Apart from this, however, there are some other details with which your Committee are not satisfied, and improvements are necessary towards rendering that efficiency expected of the department at this period. Meantime it is difficult to improve matters without spending considerably more money; but, as an alternative, your Committee are of the opinion that at a nominal cost considerable security might be obtained by arranging to have the assistance of the Greenock Brigade, when required on terms somewhat similar to those arranged between the Town Councils of Greenock and Port Glasgow."

The Council unanimously resolved to grant the Committee's request, so far as relating to the rope and lamps.

Bailie M'Callum moved that consideration of the remainder of the report be deferred till the next meeting of the Council in Committee. The motion was seconded by Bailie Maclean.

The Provost moved as an amendment that the Council consider the remainder of the report forthwith. This was seconded by Councillor Donachie.

On a division the Provost and Councillors Campbell, Donachie, Howie and Whittaker voted for the amendment, and Bailies M'Callum and Maclean voted for the motion. Councillor Moodie did not vote. The amendment was declared carried.

Councillor Moodie reported an informal meeting which he, along with Councillor's Campbell, Howie, and Whittaker, had recently had with the Greenock Firemaster, and terms on which the services of the Greenock Fire Brigade might be available for fires in Gourock, if desired. A proposal to acquire a motor fire engine for use in town was also made, and, after considerable discussion, it was remitted to the Fire Brigade Committee to consider the whole matter and report.

It was unanimously resolved to appoint Councillor Donachie a member of the Fire Brigade Committee.

The Clerk was instructed to communicate with the Fire Insurance Company in regard to the storage of the Burgh Surveyor's Car in the Fire Station, and to report, and it was remitted to the Convener of the Works Committee and the Master of Works to consider as to the future storage of the Burgh Surveyor's Car, and the petrol required thereof, and to report.

Page 65                 6/6/1918

Special Meeting of the Council

Fire Brigade

Bailie M'Callum reminded the Council that most of the members of the Fire Brigade were now in the Volunteer Forces, and that all Volunteers were called upon to do guard service in Greenock, and also to undergo a course of camp training. The Council were unanimously of the opinion the absence of so many members of the Fire Brigade might be very serious in the event of there being an outbreak of fire while they were away on Volunteer duties, and remitted to the Convener of the Fire Brigade Committee to endeavour to arrange for the release of the men from further Volunteer service.

Page 71                 20/6/1918

Fire Brigade Committee

Fire Brigade

The Convener reported in regard to the remit of the Council at their Special Meeting on 6th inst., and the Clerk submitted letter, dated 8th inst., received by him from Lieut. Scrimgeour in regard to the Volunteer duties of certain members of the Fire Brigade. It was unanimously resolved to instruct the Clerk to write to Lieutenant Scrimgeour that the Committee would be obliged by arranging that not more than two of the members of the Brigade should be at the same time absent from the Burgh on Guard duties or attending camp. It was remitted to the Convener to see the Firemaster in regard to leave to members of the Brigade who intend to be absent from the Burgh, and to arrange for an early meeting of the Brigade in the Fire Station.

Page 79                 27/6/1918

Fire Brigade Committee

Fire Brigade

Submitted letter, dated 26th inst., from Lieutenant Scrimgeour to the Clerk.

It was remitted to the Convener and the Clerk to reply to the Lieutenant's remarks in regard to guard duties.

The Convener threw out a suggestion that an effort should be made to obtain say half-dozen honorary members of the Brigade in each of the Wards of the Burgh who would be willing to assist the Brigade when required without remuneration. The Committee approved.

Rules for Brigade

It was arranged that the Committee should meet at the Fire Station on Monday first for the purpose of revising the Rules for the Regulation of the Brigade and bringing them up to date.

Page 80                 1/7/1918

Fire Brigade Committee

Fire Station

Garage Accommodation

It was resolved to ask the Works Committee to pay an annual rental of twelve pounds for garage accommodation for the Motor Car used by the Master of Works, and to ask payment from the Water Committee for the following articles taken over by them, namely :- 200ft of hose at 6d per foot, and three pairs of couplings for same at 5s per pair.

Fire Plugs

The Firemaster was instructed to have all the fire plugs re-marked. The uniforms of the brigade were also examined and improvements commented on.

Fire Engine

Councillor Donachie was asked to enquire and report upon the possibility of obtaining from the Glasgow Fire Brigade a motor fire engine, similar to that purchased by Greenock Corporation at a cost of £400.

Rules for the Fire Brigade

The Rules for the Brigade now being out of date, the Committee revised and amended the same, and resolved to recommend the Council to make and enact the Rules set forth in the Appendix hereto. They also recommended that a copy of the amended rules (when made) be framed and hung up in the Fire Station in a place suitable for inspection at any time.

Appendix

to Minute of Meeting of Fire Brigade Committee held on 1st July, 1918.

RULES made and enacted by the Provost, Magistrates, and Councillors of the Burgh of Gourock, for the Regulation of the Fire Brigade of said Burgh.

1.             The Brigade shall be under the management of the Fire Brigade Committee of the said Burgh, and the Members of the Brigade shall be subject to any orders which the Committee, or the Firemaster on behalf of the Committee, may give.

2.             The Brigade shall consist of a Firemaster, and such number of firemen as the Committee may from time to time direct.  They shall hold office during the pleasure of the Town Council.  The Brigade shall be paid at such rates per annum as the Town Council shall fix.  Each member shall be supplied with a tunic, helmet, and belt, which shall be kept at the Fire Station and remain the property of the Town Council.

3.             The Firemaster shall be empowered to engage and discharge the firemen, sub­ject to the approval of the Committee.  He shall also see that all plant is kept in good working order, and, for this purpose, the firemen shall attend, when requested by the Firemaster, and, under his orders, overhaul the same.  The Brigade shall turn out for practice eight times per annum, these times to be agreed upon by the Committee and Firemaster, and be paid at the following rates for each turn-out :-Firemaster, l0s. ; Firemen, 4s.

4.             The Members of the Brigade shall be numbered from No. I upwards. In the event of the Firemaster's absence, No. I shall take his place, and have the same authority and powers as the Firemaster, and, in the absence of both, No.2 shall take command for the time being, and so on.

5.             In case of Fire, each Member shall be notified thereof, and be bound to attend as soon as possible, the Members who attend to be paid the following sums :-Firemaster, for the first hour 4s., and for each hour thereafter 2s. 6d. ; each Fireman, for the first hour, 3s. 6d., for the second 2s. 3d., and thereafter 1s. 6d. per hour.

6.             Any Member of the Brigade neglecting or refusing to attend a Fire without giving a satisfactory reason for his absence shall be liable to be fined in the sum of l0s., and to be dismissed from the Brigade.

7.             A list of the Fire Plugs and of their situation shall he supplied to each Member. The name and address of each Member of the Brigade shall he kept at the Fire Station and in the Police Office, and each Constable shall be asked to make himself familiar with the situations of the Plugs.  The Firemen must report any change of residence, or temporary absence from home, at the Police Office, and to the Firemaster.

8.             The Constable on duty when a Fire takes place shall use every effort to get a communication conveyed to the Police Office, and to the Firemaster and each Fireman.

9.             Should extra assistance be required at any Fire, the Firemaster, or other Member in command for the time being, alone, shall be entitled to authorise the same, and no payment shall be made to any person unless he be so authorised.  Pay­ment for extra assistance shall not exceed ls. per hour.

10.           The Firemaster and every Fireman joining the Brigade shall be held to have agreed to these Rules, and to have bound himself accordingly.

Page 83                 18/7/1918

Fire Brigade Committee

Fire Engine

Councillor Donachie reported that he, along with the Provost and the Convener, had inspected a motor fire engine belonging to the Glasgow Fire Brigade, similar to that recently purchased by the Greenock Corporation from said Brigade, and that he thought same could be obtained at the price of £400. After hearing the Firemaster, the Convener moved that the Committee recommend the purchase at £400 of the engine inspected by Councillor Donachie, and this was unanimously agreed to.

Page 85                 18/7/1918

Council in Committee

Fire Engine

The Convener of the Fire Brigade Committee reported the recommendation of the Fire Brigade Committee at their meeting held this evening, and moved the approval thereof. The motion was seconded by Councillor Donachie. Bailie M'Callum not being satisfied that the Council would obtain permission to borrow the cost of a fire engine, moved the previous question as an amendment. The amendment no being seconded, the motion was declared carried. Firemaster M'Ewen was present while this matter was being considered.

Page 101               22/8/1918

Monthly Meeting of Council

Minutes

(4)           The Minute of the Fire Brigade Committee of 27th June was also submitted and held as read. Councillor Moodie moved and Councillor Donachie seconded the approval of the Minute. Bailie M'Callum moved as an amendment that the Minute be remitted to the Council in Committee for consideration. The amendment not being seconded, the motion was declared carried.

(5)           The Minute of the Fire Brigade Committee of 1st ult., and relative Appendix having been submitted, and held as read, Councillor Moodie moved the adoption of same with the exception of the paragraph headed " Fire Station - Garage Accommodation " and of Rule No.3 in said Appendix, which paragraph and rule he moved should be remitted back to the Committee for further consideration. The motion was seconded by Councillor Donachie. After considerable discussion, it was resolved that said minute, with the exception of the paragraphs headed " Fire Station - Garage Accommodation " and " Rules for Brigade," be approved of, and that said paragraphs and the whole of the Rules set forth in said Appendix be remitted back to the Fire Brigade Committee for further consideration.

(7)           The Minute of the Fire Brigade Committee of 18th ult., was also submitted and held as read. Councillor Moodie moved and Councillor Donachie seconded the adoption of the Minute. Bailie Maclean asked the Convener for an estimate of the annual charges in connection with the Fire Engine proposed to be purchased, and the Convener explained that it was difficult to give such estimate at present. Bailie Maclean then moved as an amendment that the Minute be remitted back to the Fire Brigade Committee for further consideration. The amendment was seconded by Bailie M'Callum. On a division, the Provost, Treasurer Williamson, and Councillors Donachie, Howie, Moodie, and Whittaker voted for the motion, and Bailies M'Callum and Maclean and Councillor Wood voted for the amendment. The motion was declared carried.

Page 105               3/9/1918

Fire Brigade Committee

Fire Engine

Submitted letter dated 23rd inst. from the Town Clerk, Glasgow, accepting the Council's offer for the motor fire engine referred to in the Minute of the meeting of the Fire Brigade Committee of date 18th July last. Also submitted letter dated 2nd inst. from the Chief Officer of the Glasgow Fire Brigade in regard to the delivery of the fire engine. The Committee instructed the Clerk to write the Chief Officer that they would prefer that he would have the fire engine driven down to Gourock by road after the engine had been insured. It was remitted to Councillor Donachie and the Clerk to obtain some further information in regard to the insurance of the engine, and to report.

Firemen

Exemption from Military Service

Submitted circular letter from the Under Secretary for Scotland in regard to the exemption of firemen from military service.

Page 112               19/9/1918

Fire Brigade Committee

Fire Engine

Insurance

The Convener submitted two offers which he had received for the insurance of the Fire Engine. After hearing a verbal report by Councillor Donachie, it was unanimously resolved to recommend that the Fire Engine should be insured through Lloyd's.

The Clerk was instructed to have the Fire Engine registered, and to apply for the necessary petrol permits.

Rules for Brigade

Driver

It was resolved to take these matters up at the meeting of the Council in Committee.

Fire Brigade

It was unanimously resolved that alarm bells should be fitted up between the Police Office and the houses of two of the firemen, and that a telephone should be connected between the Police Office and the Firemaster's house. It was remitted to the Convener and the Clerk to get in estimates for this work.

Page 114               19/9/1918

Council in Committee

Rules for Fire Brigade

The Rules for the Fire Brigade as set forth in the Appendix to the Minute of the Meeting of the Fire Brigade Committee of date 1st July last were gone over and altered as follows :-

1.             The Brigade shall be under the management of the Fire Brigade Committee of the said Burgh, and the Members of the Brigade shall be subject to any orders which the Committee, or the Firemaster on behalf of the Committee, may give.

2.             The Brigade shall consist of a Firemaster, and such number of firemen as the Committee may from time to time direct. They shall hold office during the pleasure of the Town Council. The Brigade shall be paid at such rates per annum as the Town Council shall fix. Each member shall be supplied with a tunic, helmet, and belt, which shall be kept at the Fire Station and remain the property of the Town Council.

3.             The Firemaster shall be empowered to engage and discharge the firemen, subject to the approval of the Committee. He shall also see that all plant is kept in good working order, and, for this purpose, the firemen shall attend, when requested by the Firemaster, and, under his orders, overhaul the same.  The Brigade shall turn out for practice eight times per annum, these times to be agreed upon by the Committee and Firemaster.

4.             The Members of the Brigade shall be numbered from No.1 upwards.  In the event of the Firemaster's absence, No. 1 shall take his place, and have the same authority and powers as the Firemaster, and, in the absence of both, No.2 shall take command for the time being, and so on.

5.             In case of Fire, each Member shall be notified thereof; and be bound to attend as soon as possible. Any Member of the Brigade neglecting or refusing to attend a Fire without giving a satisfactory reason for his absence shall be liable to be fined in the sum of 10s., and to be dismissed from the Brigade.

6.             A list of the Fire Plugs and of their situation shall be supplied to each Member. The name and address of each Member of the Brigade shall be kept at the Fire Station and in the Police Office, and each Constable shall be asked to make himself familiar with the situations of the Plugs. The Firemen must report any change of residence, or temporary absence from home, at the Police Office, and to the Firemaster.

7.             The Constable on duty when a Fire takes place shall use every effort to get a communication conveyed to the Police Office, and to the Firemaster and each Fireman.

8.             Should extra assistance be required at any Fire, the Firemaster, or other Member in command for the time being, alone, shall be entitled to authorise the same, and no payment for extra assistance shall be made to any person unless he be so authorised.

9.             The Firemaster and every Fireman joining the Brigade shall be held to have agreed to these Rules, and to have bound himself accordingly.

Page 115              

Fire Engine

Insurance

The Convener of the Fire Brigade reported that his Committee had unanimously recommended that the Fire Engine should be insured through Lloyd's. After some discussion, the Clerk was instructed to write the Agent for Lloyd's and enquire whether a reduction could not be made in his quotation, and to report.

Driver

The council instructed the Clerk to advertise for a joiner who could act as driver of the Motor Fire Engine. They were of opinion such driver should be engaged by the Works Committee under an arrangement whereby the Fire Brigade Committee should make the Works Committee a weekly payment of £1 for his services in connection with the Fire Brigade.

Page 118               26/9/1918

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

Insurance-Fire Engine

The Clerk was instructed to obtain some further information regarding the insurance of the new Fire Engine and to report to the Fire Brigade Committee.

Page 119               3/10/1918

Fire Brigade Committee

Fire Engine

Insurance

Petrol

The Committee having again considered this matter, it was unanimously resolved to recommend that the offer received from the Municipal Mutual Insurance, Ltd., for the insurance of the new fire engine be accepted. It was also resolved to recommend that the engine be registered in Paisley, and that the Clerk should apply for a permit for seventy-five gallons of petrol a year.

Appendix

Fire Brigade

It was unanimously resolved to recommend that the allowances to the members of the Fire Brigade should be as follows :-

For each turn out for practice :-         Firemaster, 10/-     each Fireman, 4/-

For each fire :-       Firemaster for the first hour, 4/- : and for each hour thereafter, 2/6

                                Each Fireman for the first hour, 3/6 : for the second 2/3 : and thereafter 1/6 per hour

NOTE - Payment for extra assistance at fires not to exceed 1/- per hour.

                It is not proposed to make any change in the yearly Salaries which are as follows :-

                Firemaster              £8 - 0 - 0

                Fireman No.1         £4 - 0 - 0

                Other Fireman       £3 - 0 - 0

Page 121               3/10/1918

Special Meeting of Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

Insurance - Fire Engine

It was unanimously resolved to approve of the recommendation of the Fire Brigade Committee that the insurance of the new fire engine should be given to the Municipal Mutual Insurance, Ltd.

Page 136               24/10/1918

Council in Committee

Fire Engine

The Chamberlain was instructed to pay the Glasgow Corporation the price of the Fire Engine recently purchased from them. It was remitted to the Fire Brigade Committee to report how they would recommend such cost be repaid.

Page 145               14/11/1918

Works Committee

Fire Station

It was remitted to the Master of Works to alter the position of the public lamp at the Fire Station

Page 150               21/11/1918

Council in Committee

Fire Engine

Councillor Moodie reported that the Fire Brigade Committee recommended that the cost of the Fire Engine recently purchased from the Glasgow Corporation should be spread over a period of fifteen years at four per cent interest. The recommendation was approved of.

Page 154               28/11/1918

Council in Committee

Fire Engine

The Clerk reported receipt of motor spirit license which the Council considered satisfactory

1919

Page 6                    23/1/1919

Fire Brigade Committee

Firemaster's Report

Submitted Firemaster's Report for the year ended 31st ult., as follows :-

Jany. 15th.             Fire at Sandrock, Tower Drive. Very slight.

Feby. 13th,            Fire Plug inspection :- Moorfield Road, Tower Drive, Barrhill Road, and Victoria                    Road. Note. - One Fire Plug in Golf Road, which was buried with land slip, has now                    been stripped.

March 4th.             Fire Plug inspection :- Ashton Road, Albert Road, Kempock Street, Kempock Place,                             and Bath Street.

March 8th.             Fire Plug inspection :- Broomberry Drive, John Street, Royal Street, Binnie Street,                                 and King Street. Note. - Pressure in Binnie Street found defective. Reducer in John                         Street now removed, increasing pressure by 30lbs.

March 20th            Fire Plug inspection :- Reservoir Road, Larkfield Road, Nelson Road, Manor Crescent                          West, and Caledonia Crescent.

April lst.                 Fire at shop, 51 Kempock Street. Damage mostly to chimney head and vent.

July 5th.                 Fire at shop, 7 Chapel Street. Kitchen floor entirely destroyed.

Nov. 20th.              Fire Plug inspection:- Shore Street, Kempock Place, Bath Street, and Hopeton Street.

Nov. 25th               Fire Plug inspection :- Cardwell Road, Tarbet Street, Adam Street, Sharp Street, Steel                           Street, and Cove Road.

Note.-With few exceptions, all the Fire Plugs were found to be in good working order.

The Committee were of opinion the Fire Brigade should not be charged any further rent on account of horse stabling, as, at no time during the year, had the horse been used or been available. They recommended that an effort should be made to secure a permanent motor driver, whose services would, when required, be available without loss of time, and that an early effort should be made to house at least the Firemaster and the Motor Driver at or near the Fire Station.  They were of opinion there were two alternative ways of doing this :-(1) to build two houses on the top of the present fire station at a probable cost of say £1000, or (2) to purchase a property opposite the Fire Station.  Such a property, containing six houses, might be had at a price of from £1300 to £1350, and the Committee were of opinion the second course was well worthy the consideration of the Council.

Fire Engine.

The Clerk was instructed to lodge a claim for a rebate of the Motor Spirit Duty paid in respect of the Fire Engine, and to report.

Page 8                    23/1/1919

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

The Convener of the Fire Brigade Committee submitted the Firemaster's report for last year and relative recommendations of his Committee. It was resolved to take the matter up at the next meeting of the Council in Committee

Page 11                 30/1/1919

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

The Council having considered the recommendations contained in the Minute of Meeting of the Fire Brigade Committee of 23rd inst., resolved, after considerable discussion, to remit the matter back to the Committee, so that they might obtain some additional information.

Page 14                 13/2/1919

Fire Brigade Committee

Motor Fire Engine

Driver

The Convener explained that Mr. Donald Craigie, 45 Royal Street, had offered to act as Burgh Joiner, Storekeeper, and a Driver of the Motor Fire Engine at the weekly wage of £3 - 10s. It was unanimously resolved to recommend the Works Committee to engage Craigie accordingly, on the understanding that £1 of his weekly wage should be charged against the Fire Brigade, and that Craigie should receive, from the Fire Brigade account, in addition to his wage fees at the rates applicable to ordinary Burgh Fireman for all fires to which he may be called out, and also for all Fire Brigade Drills attended by him after hours.

Page 16                 13/2/1919

Works Committee

Burgh Joiner and Storeman

The Committee approved the recommendation of the Fire Brigade Committee as contained in the Minute of their Meeting on this date, on the understanding that Mr. Craigie's duties and wages should include the driving of the Motor Ambulance Wagon after it has been procured.

Page 20                 20/2/1919

Council in Committee

Burgh Joiner and Storeman

Driver, Motor Fire Engine

It was remitted to the Convener of the Works and Fire Brigade Committees to adjust, with the Master of Works and the Firemaster, the duties of Donald  C. Craigie.

Page 26                 12/3/1919

Fire Brigade Committee

Fire Brigade

It was unanimously resolved to recommend that Thomas Melville and James McEwan be appointed temporary members of the Fire Brigade in the place of Messrs. Brown and Orr, and that they be paid at fireman's rates for the services rendered by them at recent fires.

It was explained that Messrs. Melville and McEwan resided with their fathers, whose houses were already provided with fire alarm bells, and that the houses of Messrs. Brown and Orr were not so provided.

It was also resolved to recommend that the Driver of the Fire Engine be provided with an outfit, and that each member of the Brigade be provided with a pair of trousers and a pair of half boots.

Fire Alarms

It was further resolved to recommend that enquiry be made as to the probable cost of fitting up a fire alarm in the East End and another in the West End of the Burgh.

Page 33                 20/3/1919

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

Councillor Moodie reported offer for the fitting up of alarm bells in the houses occupied by David Ritchie and Donald Craigie, two of the members of the Fire Brigade. The Council remitted to him to endeavour to obtain one or two other offers for the work, and to report to his Committee.

Page 64                 29/5/1919

Fire Brigade Committee

Firemen

It was resolved to recommend that the services of the only remaining temporary firemen should be dispensed with, and that an effort should be made to obtain a duly qualified man as a spare driver of the Fire Engine

Page 68                 5/6/1919

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

The Convener of the Fire Brigade Committee having reported meeting with Mr. Craigie, it was unanimously resolved to accept Mr. Craigie's resignation, and to advertise for another driver for the Fire Engine.

Page 76                 19/6/1919

Council in Committee

Burgh Joiner and Storeman

Driver - Fire Engine

The Convener of the Works Committee reported that he had gone over the applications received in reply to the advertisement for a Burgh Joiner and Storeman, and Driver of the Fire Engine, with the Convener of the Fire Brigade Committee, that none of these were satisfactory, and that Mr. Craigie had offered to give up taxi work in the evenings if his wages were increased to £4 a week. They recommended the Council to accept this offer, which was agreed to on the understanding that the increase in wages should be apportioned on half to the Works Department and the other half to the Fire Brigade The Council were also of opinion an effort should be made to secure a second driver for the Fire Engine.

Page 83                 7/8/1919

Fire Brigade Committee

Firemen's Boots

Submitted two offers for Wellington Boots for the members of the Fire Brigade. It was unanimously resolved to recommend that the offer of Messrs. Stead and Simpson, Ltd. (the lower) be accepted.

Firemen's Suits

Submitted offers for two suits and two pair spare trousers required for two members of the Fire Brigade. It was unanimously resolved to recommend that the offer of Mr. Robt. Alexander, Clothier, Greenock, be accepted.

Driver Fire Engine

It was reported that Mr. Craigie, the driver of the Fire Engine, had applied for a holiday during the third week in August. It was resolved to recommend that it be remitted to the Convener and the Firemaster to arrange for the services of Mr. Kennedy jr., being available as driver in the event of the Fire Engine being called out while Mr. Craigie was on holiday.

The Committee were of the opinion Mr. Melville, jr., one of the members of the Fire Brigade, should be trained as a second driver for the Fire Engine, and resolved to recommend accordingly.

Page 94                 20/8/1919

Fire Brigade Committee

Fireman's Suits

The Clerk reported that Mr. Robt. Alexander, Clothier, Greenock, had withdrawn his offer for the two suits and two pairs of spare trousers required for the Fire Brigade, and submitted two new offers for such suits and trousers. It was unanimously resolved to recommend that the offer of Messrs. J. & S. Shannon, Clothiers, Greenock, for tunics and trousers should be accepted.

Page 143               27/11/1919

Council in Committee

Ambulance Wagon

Treasurer Moodie mentioned that the new Motor Ambulance would be handed over to the Council at the Fire Station on Saturday first at four O'clock afternoon.

Page 148               11/12/1919

Fire Brigade Committee

Fires etc.

The Firemasters Book for the current year was gone over by the Committee.

Hose

It was resolved to recommend that 300ft of canvas hose be purchased and that it be remitted to the Firemaster to obtain and submit offers thereof.

Ambulance

The committee were of the opinion a second driver should be obtained for the motors (Ambulance wagon etc.) and it was remitted to Treasurer Moodie and the Convener to see Mr. Craigie on the subject and to report. It was also remitted to the same Committee to prepare and submit for approval a scale of fees for the use of the Ambulance.

It was further resolved to defer consideration of letter dated 10th inst. from the Clyde Coast Transport Co. to the Convener.

Fire Engine

On the motion of Treasurer Moodie, seconded by Councillor Walker it was resolved to recommend that a four volt accumulator be obtained for the Fire Engine and that it be remitted to the Firemaster to obtain and submit offers thereof.

Page 150               11/12/1919

Works Committee

Fire Engine

Ambulance Wagon

The Convener of the Fire Brigade and Ambulance Committee referred to the advisability of having a second driver for the Fire Engine and Ambulance. It was resolved to remit the matter to the two Conveners to look into and report

Fire Brigade and Ambulance Committee

It was unanimously resolved to recommend that the Chairman should be added to the Fire Brigade and Ambulance Committee.

1920

Page 25                 12/2/1920

Fire Brigade and Ambulance Committee

Motors

It was resolved to allow the offer dated 13th ult., by the Clyde Coast Transport Company to maintain the motors belonging to the Town Council in good running order, and to supply a spare driver for the Fire Engine and the Ambulance Wagon to lie on the table.

Some discussion having taken place in regard to a second driver for the Fire Engine and the Ambulance, the Committee were of the opinion arrangements should be made for training Mr. Melville, jr., and that the matter should be remitted to the Convener, the Master of Works, and the Firemaster to endeavour to make satisfactory arrangements with Mr. Craigie and Mr. Melville, with powers.

Accumulator and Lamp

Submitted estimate for accumulator and lamp for the Fire Engine. It was resolved to keep same over until an additional estimate had been obtained.

Hose

Submitted three offers for new hose required by the Fire Brigade. After hearing the Firemaster, it was resolved to recommend that the offer of Messrs. McGregor and Co., Dundee, for Rob Roy hose at 3/3 per foot, should be accepted.

Page 69                 4/5/1920

Fire Brigade and Ambulance Committee

Motors

The Convener reported that the training of Mr. Melville, jr., was now progressing in a satisfactory manner.

Accumulator and Lamp

Submitted two estimates for Accumulator and Lamp for the Fire Engine. On the footing that the estimate of Messrs. Hurry Bros. included the necessary fitting, it was resolved to recommend that their offer should be accepted.

Hose

The Committee reported that the new hose had not yet arrived.

Page 83                 27/5/1920

Council in Committee

Fire Engine

Ambulance

It was reported that the driver of the Fire Engine and of the Ambulance was leaving at the end of the week. It was remitted to the Master of Works to advertise for a new driver, and to report.

Page 87                 3/6/1920

Council in Committee

Burgh Storeman

Driver, Fire Engine and Ambulance

The Convener of the Works Committee reported that, along with the Convener of the Fire Brigade, &c., Committee, he had interviewed the applicants for this vacancy, and recommended that A. Lamont, 27 Church Street, Govan, be appointed at the weekly wage of £4 - 5s ; no overtime. This recommendation was approved of.

Page 84                 14/8/1920

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Fire Brigade

Submitted offer for old Fire Brigade cart and van harness. The Committee resolved to recommend that the cart and harness be not meantime disposed of.

Fire Engine

It was remitted to the Convener to obtain and submit a report from the new Driver on the state of the Fire Engine and to arrange for having an inventory made of all the stores in connection with the Fire Brigade.

It was reported that Mr. Jas Melville Jr., was now qualified to act as spare Driver.

Page 105               8/7/1920

Ambulance Committee

Fire Engine

The Firemaster reported that the foot brake and the clutch next to the fly wheel of the Fire Engine required to be overhauled. It was arranged that the Clyde Coast Transport Co. should be asked to report as to the repairs required and to remit the matter to Treasurer Moodie and Councillor Walker, with powers.

Page 123               19/8/1920

Council in Committee

Fire Engine

The Convener reported that he had now received an Inventory of Plant, &c., in the Fire Station.

He also reported that, in spite of the recent overhaul of the Fire Engine, the clutch was not yet working in a satisfactory way.

Councillor Walker complained that, notwithstanding the remit of 8th ulto., the repair of the Fire Engine had been carried out without his having been consulted.

Page 146               30/9/1920

Council in Committee

Fire Engine

The Fire Brigade etc., Committee were asked to report in regard to the recent overhaul of the fire engine etc.

Page 151               7/10/1920

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Fire Engine

The Committee having heard the Driver on the condition of the Fire Engine and on the nature of the recent overhaul, it was resolved to recommend that the Firemaster takes estimates from Messrs. Hurry Brothers and Messrs. J. & J. M'Morland for two accumulators and the necessary fittings of the headlights on the Engine. It was also resolved to recommend that one of the lamps should be reglazed and repaired by Mr. J. G. Graham, Glazier, Greenock.

Page 169               5/11/1920

Statutory Meeting of the Provost, Magistrates and Councillors of the Burgh of Gourock

Standing Committees

Appointment

The following Standing Committees were appointed, with right to exercise all or any of the powers conferred upon them by Council under the various Statues administered by them, namely :

(6) The Bathing Station, Open Air Entertainments, Fire Brigade and Ambulance Committee, with the power.............................

Page 181               18/11/1920

Bathing Station, &c., Committee

Fire Engine

The Convener submitted two offers for accumulators for the Fire Engine. It having been pointed out that the offers were not on similar lines, it was remitted to the Convener and Sub Convener to obtain a competative offer based on the lighting rate, and to make a recommendation to the Council in Committee.

Fire Station

It was arranged to take up at the next meeting the matter of the proposed widening of the door at the Fire Station.

Page 183               25/11/1920

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

Councillor Morrison submitted two offers for accumulators for the Fire Engine. It was remitted to him to accept Messrs. Hurry Bros. offer of £9 (the lower).

1921

Page 1                    6/1/1921

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Fire Brigade

The Convener reported outbreak of fire at 1 Cove Road on Sunday last, and the Firemaster and one of the Firemen had been injured. It was mentioned that the necessary intimation had been sent to the Insurance Company.

Fire Station

It was remitted to the Master of Works to report in regard to the proposed widening of the doorway at the Fire Station.

Page 16                 28/1/1921

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

Submitted correspondence with the British General Insurance Co. in regard to the recent accident to the Firemaster and Fireman T. Melville. It was resolved to remit the matter to Treasurer Moodie and the Convener of the Fire Brigade, &c., Committee to consider and report.

Page 22                 10/2/1921

Finance Committee

Fire Brigade

In the absence of Councillor Morrison, Treasurer Moodie reported the recommendations of the Committee appointed on 28th ulto. It was resolved to recommend that these recommendations be approved of.

Page 44                 24/3/1921

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Fire Brigade

An account of £1 8s 8d was examined and passed to the Finance Committee.

The Committee were of the opinion the limit of the insurance of each of the Members of the Fire Brigade against accidents should be increased to £4 10s a week, and it was remitted to the Town Chamberlain to obtain and submit quotations for such increased insurance. The Committee recommended that an intimation of the change in the amount of the insurance should be put up in the Fire Station.

It was remitted to the Convener and the Firemaster to obtain two electric torches and two whistles for the use of the firemen, and an equipment for a first aid box to be placed in the Fire Engine.

It was remitted to the Convener, the Firemaster, and the Clerk to fill up and dispatch the return received from the Secretary of the Royal Commission on Fire Brigades and Fire Prevention.

The Master of Works submitted plan of proposed widening of the doorway at the Fire Station, which was approved, and it was remitted to him to obtain and submit estimates for the work. Mr. Duthie also submitted plan of houses proposed to be erected on the top of the Fire Station. After some conversation it was resolved to defer coming to any recommendation until some further information was received.

The Committee recommended the old Fire Cart and set of harness should be advertised for sale.

Page 65                 21/4/1921

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Fire Station

It was resolved to instruct the Burgh Surveyor (1) to report on the floor of the Fire Station, and to submit an estimate of the probable cost of any alterations there on which he might recommend, and (2) to obtain and submit estimates of the cost of the proposed widening of the doorway.

Fire Engine

Submitted estimates of the cost of a first aid box to be placed on the floor of the Fire Engine. It was remitted to the Convener to confer with the Medical Officer of Health, and procure the box recommended by him. It was also remitted to the Convener to procure such spare pins and small parts as were required for the Fire Engine.

Fire Plugs

It was remitted to the Convener to confer with the Firemaster in regard to oiling the fire plugs, and to report.

Page 80                 10/5/1921

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Fire Engine

The Convener reportedthat after conferring with the Medical Officer of Health he had ordered a first-aid box, No. 722 on the list, at the cost of £1 10s 0d. The Committee approved.

Page 84                 19/5/1921

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Fire Cart and Harness

Submitted two offers for the old Fire Cart and set of Harness. It was resolved to recommend that the offer of Mr. James Broadfoot (the higher) be accepted.

Fire Brigade

It was remitted to the Convener to see the Firemaster in regard to the attendances at the Fire Station of the Members of the Fire Brigade and to report.

It having been mentioned that the driver desired a holiday on Monday first, it was remitted to the Master of Works to see that the services of Mr. Thomas Melville would, if required, be available as driver on that date.

Page 92                 26/5/1921

Council in Committee

Fire Alarm Bells

The Clerk was instructed to sign on behalf of the Council the new Agreement for the private circuit from the Police Office to the Firemen's houses at the annual rental of £7 15s.

Page 125               25/8/1921

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Firemen's Wages

After some discussion, it was resolved to remit to the Convener and the Firemaster to consider the wages of the Firemen, &c., and to report to the Committee as to reducing the expenditure in connection with the Fire Brigade.

Fire Hose

Submitted two offers for 400 feet of hose required. It having been suggested that suitable hose might perhaps be obtained from the Government Disposal Board, it was remitted to the Firemaster to enquire as to this, and to report.

Page 142               22/9/1921

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Fireman's Wages

The Convener submitted a comparative statement of the wages, &c., paid to the Fire Brigade of the Burghs of Port Glasgow, Helensburgh, Dunoon, and Gourock. After some discussion, it was unanimously resolved to recommend that the wages of the Firemaster and Firemen should be reduced by ten per cent - the reduction to come into force as soon as possible. The Committee were of the opinion no change should meantime be made in the number of drills.

Fire Engine

Ambulance Box

The Convener having reported that the Firemaster was not satisfied with the Ambulance Box supplied to the Fire Engine, it was remitted to the Convener to see the Medical Officer of Health on the subject, and to report.

It was also remitted to the Convener to look into a complaint regarding the foot brake of the Fire Engine, and to report.

Page 147               29/9/1921

Monthly Meeting of Council

Fire Brigade

Fire Prevention

The Convener of the Fire Brigade, &c., Committee, referred to the evidence recently given by Mr. W. J. Hart Reid, Chairman of the Fire Brigade Committee of the Lower District of Renfrew, before the Royal Commission on Fire Brigades and Fire Prevention. According to the report in the "Glasgow Herald" of 23rd inst., Mr. Hart Reid said in his evidence "Gourock had a very poor equipment, and his Committee had endeavoured to make an arrangement with Gourock, but they would not come in." Councillor Morrison said that as both statements were not in accordance with the facts, he had written the Editor of the "Glasgow Herald" to that effect. The Clerk submitted letter dated 27th June, 1912, which he had received from the Clerk to the Lower District Committee together with excerpts from the Council's Minutes of 1st August, 1912, 25th September, 1913, and 9th and 16th October, 1913, from which it appeared that the negotiations with the District Committee were brought to an end by the District Committee and not by the Council.

As regards the equipment of the Gourock Fire Brigade, the Convener reminded the Council that the Burgh had for some years past had a fully equipped motor fire engine, with an ample staff of firemen, and that their equipment was as up to date as that of many larger Burghs.

Judge M'Callum having confirmed the statements made by the Convener, the Council, on the motion of the Provost, resolved to minute their thanks to Councillor Morrison for his action in the matter, and, as the Royal Commission had now completed their evidence for Scotland, instructed the Clerk to send a copy of the paper to their Secretary.

Page 157               13/10/1921

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Firemen's Wages

The Committee having again considered the wages of the Firemaster and Firemen, together with a further statement prepared by the Convener, it was unanimously resolved to recommend (1) that the salaries paid to the Firemaster and the Firemen should be the salaries paid them respectively in 1914 ; that the allowances paid to the Firemaster for attendances at fires should be the same as those paid him in 1914, and that the allowances paid to the Firemen for such attendances should be 3/- for the first hour ; 2/- for the second hour ; and 1/6 for each hour thereafter. With regard to the fees paid for drills and inspections, &c., the Committee unanimously recommended that same be reduced by ten per cent in the case of both the Firemaster and the Firemen. The Committee further recommended that the above alterations should come into force as soon as possible.

Long Service Medals

It was resolved to remit this matter to the Convener with powers.

Page 187               17/11/1921

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Firemen's Wages

The Convener submitted a letter of protest by the Firemaster and Firemen against the alterations in their wages recommended in the Minute of the Meeting of the Committee held on 13th ult. After some discussion, it was resolved to remit to the Convener to ascertain the exact desires of the Firemaster and Firemen and to report.

Fire Engine

Councillor Donachie reported that the lighting of the Fire Engine was now in a satisfactory condition.

Fire Brigade

Fire Prevention

The Clerk reported that a copy of the papers referred to under this heading in the Minute of the Monthly Meeting of the Council held on the 29th September last had been sent to the Secretary of the Royal Commission on Fire Brigades and Fire Prevention, who had promised to put same before the Chairman.

Fire Hose

Submitted offer for 400feet of two and a half inch hose required for the Fire Brigade. It was resolved to remit this offer and the two offers submitted to the Meeting of the Committee held on 25th August last to the Convener, with powers.

Page 190               17/11/1921

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

Fire Alarm Bells

The Clerk submitted Memo. dated 4th inst., from District Manager, Post Office Telephones, in regard to the annual rental in connection with the Fire Alarm Bells. It appeared that the proper rental was £8 5s and not £7 15s as originally stated. The Council authorised the Clerk to initial the necessary alteration in the Council's Agreement.

Page 200               1/12/1921

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Firemen's Wages

The Committee having again considered this matter resolved to recommend that no change be made in the wages of the Firemaster and Firemen for attendance at fires, so far as the first hour was concerned.

Fire Hose

It was remitted to the Convener to see the Firemaster and arrange for the acceptance of Mr. R. M. Gilmour's offer of Magnet Hose at 1s 9d, or 1s 10d per foot.

Fire Station

It was remitted to the Master of Works to obtain and submit offers for a new door for the Fire Station &c.

Page 214               15/12/1921

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

The Convener of the Fire Brigade, &c., Committee reported the resignations of the Firemaster and of Messrs. James Melville and Thomas Melville, all as at 31st curt. He moved, and Councillor Donachie seconded, that these resignations be accepted, and this was unanimously agreed to. It was remitted to the Fire Brigade, &c., Committee to consider as to the filling up of the vacancies and to report as soon as possible.

Page 215               22/12/1921

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Firemaster

The Convener suggested that John Christie, one of the Council's employees, should be appointed Firemaster in place of John M'Ewan, resigned, and it was unanimously resolved to recommend John Christie's appointment at a salary to be afterwards arranged.

Fire Brigade

It was unanimously resolved to recommend that Arthur Russell be appointed to fill one of the vacancies in the Fire Brigade, and that it be remitted to the Convener and Firemaster to consider as to the filling up of these other vacancies, and to report.

It was remitted to the Convener to confer with the Firemaster as to the wages, conditions of service, etc., of the members of the Fire Brigade, and to report.

Medals for Firemen

It was remitted to the Convener to arrange for the presentation of long service medals to Messrs. John M'Ewan and James Melville, who had been till recently members of the Fire Brigade.

Page 220               22/12/1921

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

The Convener of the Fire Brigade, &c., Committee reported the recommendations made by his Committee at their meeting tonight in regard to the appointment of Mr. Christie as Firemaster and of Mr. Arthur Russell as a member of the Fire Brigade. The Council approved.

1922

Page 1                    10/1/1922

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Firemaster

Honorary Firemaster

Submitted letter dated 9th inst. from Mr. John Christie accepting the office of Firemaster.

The Convener suggested that Mr. Duthie (Burgh Surveyor and Sanitary Inspector ?) should be appointed Honorary Firemaster for the Burgh, and explained that Mr. Christie had expressed his willingness to act under and report to Mr. Duthie. He also explained that Mr. Duthie was willing to accept that Honorary appointment. The suggestion was approved of, and the Committee unanimously resolved to recommend accordingly.

Fire Brigade

It was reported that Mr. Arthur Russell had accepted appointment as one of the Members of the Fire Brigade, and it was remitted to the Convener to see that the necessary alarm bell was fitted up in his house.

The remit to the Convener to fill up the other vacancies was continued, and it was also remitted to him to consider and report as to the appointment of a second driver for the Fire Engine. The Convener mentioned that milage sheets had now been supplied to the Driver of the Fire Engine.

It was remitted to Mr. Duthie to obtain three sets of couplings for the new fire hose, and to the Convener to arrange for obtaining two life lines, a dozen leather straps, and a helmet for the Driver of the Fire Engine.

Medals for Firemen

The Convener recommended that the presentation of long service medals to Messrs. M'Ewan and Melville should be made at the next Monthly Meeting of the Council.  The Committee approved.

Page 14                 19/1/1922

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

Medals for Firemen

The recommendation of the Fire Brigade Committee that the presentation of the Long Service Medals to Messrs. M'Ewan and Melville should be made at the next Monthly Meeting of the Council was approved, and the Provost was asked to make such presentation.

Page 17                 24/1/1922

Monthly Meeting of Council

Fire Brigade

Medals for Firemen

The Convener of the Fire Brigade, &c., Committee referred to the long and valuable services rendered by Messrs. John M'Ewan and James Melville, who had recently resigned their appointment as Firemaster and Assistant Firemaster of the Fire Brigade for the Burgh, and asked the Provost to hand these gentlemen their long service medals. The Provost, before presenting the medals , mentioned that Mr. M'Ewan had thirty and Mr. Melville forty-one years faithful service with the Brigade. Messrs. M'Ewan and Melville having suitably acknowledged the gifts, the Provost took the opportunity of welcoming Mr. John Christie, who was present, on his recent appointment as Firemaster.

Page 20                 2/2/1922

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Fire Brigade

Submitted three applications for the present vacancies in the Fire Brigade. It was resolved to recommend that John Gallagher, 17 Adelaide Street be appointed a member of the Brigade and second driver of the Fire Engine, but that the other two applications be not entertained, in respect both men resided outwith the Burgh. It was also resolved to recommend (1) that Mr. Lamont, the driver of the Fire Engine, be appointed a member of the Brigade, and that it be remitted to Mr. Duthie to arrange with him that he be paid for services rendered after 5p.m., (2) that David Ritchie be appointed first Fireman, and (3) that it be remitted to the Firemaster to endeavour to obtain the services of Mr. Wm. Keays until the remaining vacancy in the Brigade is filled up.

The remit to the Convener in regard to wages, conditions of service &c. was continued.

Two offers for the couplings required for the new fire hose were remitted to Mr. Duthie so that he might obtain some further information and report.

Page 39                 23/2/1922

Council in Committee

Fire Station

The Convener of the Fire Brigade, &c., Committee submitted five offers for the widening of the doorway of the Fire Station. The offers having been opened, it was on his motion, seconded by Councillor Donachie, unanimously resolved to recommend that the offer of Mr. Wm. S. Tarbet (the lowest) should be accepted.

Page 52                 10/3/1922

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Fire Plug

The Convener recommends that a new fire plug be fixed at the top of Ashton steps.

Fire Engine

The Burgh surveyor was instructed to order a new cylinder and pistons for the Fire Engine

Page 64                 6/4/1922

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Firemen’s uniform

Life Lines

It was remitted to the Convener to order a suitable uniform for Fireman Russell, and the life lines required for the Brigade.

Page 123               3/8/1922

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Fire Engine

The convener reported that a new cylinder had been ordered for the Fire Engine, and that Messrs. Brown Primrose and Smyth, Engineers, Glasgow, reported that repairs on the gear box were required, the cost of which would amount to say £35. The matter being urgent, the Convener said he had instructed the Hon. Firemaster to arrange for having the repairs carried out forthwith. The Committee approved the Convener’s action, and remitted to him to report how the gear had come to be in the condition in which the Engineers found it.

Fires

The Firemaster reported that since last meeting the Brigade had been called out to two fires in the Burgh, and said there had been a want of water pressure at the fire at Church Place.

Alarm Bells

The Clerk submitted an Agreement with the Post Office for fitting up an alarm bell in Benclyd at a cost of £3 6s. It was remitted to him to sign such an agreement and have it sent in.

Page 146               5/9/1922

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Fires

The Firemaster reported that, since last meeting, there had been no fires in the Burgh.

He mentioned that he had called the attenation of the Burgh Surveyor to the roof of a property in Royal Street which had been damaged by a chimney fire. The Committee were of the opinion the Burgh Surveyor should press the Factors to have the roof repaired, and report to next meeting.

The Firemaster suggested wooden wedges might be got to cover the fire hose and so prevent the holding up of vehicular traffic (other than tramcars) in the event of a fire. It was resolved to remit the matter to the Hon. Firemaster and him with powers.

Fire Engine

It was reported that the repairs on the Fire Engine had now been completed, and that the engine had been tested and found satisfactory.

Page 165                               5/10/1922

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Fires

It was reported that, since last meeting, the Brigade had been called out in consequence of one of the chimneys at George Place having gone on fire.

Fire Engine

It was reported that the Fire Engine was working in a satisfactory manner.

Fire Engine

Ambulance

On the motion of the Convener, seconded by Councillor Donachie, it was resolved to appoint, Mr. Gallagher first driver, and Mr. Lamont second driver.

The Hon. Firemaster reported letter from Mr. Gallagher as to spare parts which he thought should be obtained, and kept in stock. The Committee remitted to Mr. Duthie to obtain the parts specified in this letter.

Page 167               5/10/1922

Council in Committee

Burgh Employee’s Wages

The Convener of the Fire Brigade, &c., Committee reported his Committees recommendations in regard to the appointment of Mr. Gallagher as first driver, and Mr. Lamont as second driver, of the Fire Engine, etc. After some discussion he moved that the Council approve of this recommendation on the understanding that the weekly wages for the two men should each be £3, and that Mr. Gallagher should in addition to acting as first driver of the Fire Engine, carry out whatever other work as assigned to him by the Burgh Surveyor, and that he should receive no extras or overtime except when his services were required as a member of the Fire Brigade, or when he was out with the Ambulance Wagon after the hours fixed by the Burgh Surveyor. The motion was seconded and an amendment for further discussion was put forward. On a vote the motion was declared carried.

Page 215               7/12/1922

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Fires

The Firemaster reported that, since last meeting, there had been two fires in the Burgh, one at 29 Shore street, and the other at Mount William. He mentioned that the attenation of the Police had been called to one of these fires.

Fire Engine

It was remitted to the Hon. Firemaster to obtain a new tyre for one of the front wheels of the Fire Engine.

1923

Page 1                    4/1/1923

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Cinematograph Act 1909

It was unanimously resolved to recommend that the Firemaster be appointed Inspector of Premises in the Burgh licensed under this Act.

Fires

The Firemaster reported that there had been no fires in the Burgh since 28th November last.

It was remitted to the Hon. Firemaster to see the ex-member of the Fire Brigade who assisted at a recent fire in the Burgh, in regard to his claim for damage to clothing, and to report.

Page 19                 23/1/1923

Council in Committee

Fire Fighting Appliances

It was resolved to allow letter from Messrs. Dennis Brothers, Ltd., Guildford to lie on the table.

Page 21                 1/2/1923

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Fires

The Firemaster reported that, since last meeting, the Brigade had been called out to two fires in the Burgh.

The claim of the ex-member of the Fire Brigade, referred to at the last meeting of the Committee, was again considered. After some discussion, it was resolved to keep the matter over until the next meeting of the Committee.

Page 36                 19/2/1923

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Alarm Bell

The Committee recommended that an Alarm Bell be fitted up in the Fire Station, so that it could be rung from the Police Office the same way as the bells in the Fireman's houses.

Page 68                 5/4/1923

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Fire Station - Alarm Bell

The Convener reported that the cost of the proposed alarm bell in the Fire Station would be £2 6/- per annum. It was resolved to recommend that the fitting up of this bell should be kept over till the new Police Station had been erected.

Page 93                 3/5/1923

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Fire Brigade

It was remitted to the Convener and the Hon. Firemaster to obtain a uniform for the Firemaster, caps for the firemen, two pairs of Fireman's boots, one pair of overalls, and three fire plugs.

Page 139               2/8/1923

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Wages

The Firemaster reported complaint by the drivers of the Fire Engine. It was remitted to the Convener, the Hon. Firemaster, and the Firemaster to look into the matter and to report.

Page 185               4/10/1923

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Fireman's Wages

The Convener suggested that Messrs. Gallacher and Lamont should be paid Fireman's wages (lass their regular wages) if called out by the Brigade during working hours. The Committee approved and recommended accordingly.

Fire Engine

The Hon. Firemaster reported that the radiator of the Fire Engine had now been repaired.

Page 194               11/10/1623

Council in Committee

Ashton Fire

The Provost referred to the recent disastrous fire in Albert Road, it was remitted to make a public appeal in "The Greenock Telegraph" and "The Gourock Times" for subscriptions towards the relief of the distress occasioned to the Occupiers of the houses destroyed and damaged in that fire. It was mentioned that many of such Occupiers had lost the whole of their household effects, which, in most cases, were not insured and it was arranged that subscriptions might be sent to the Provost, any of the members of the Council, the Town Clerk, or the Chamberlain, who was asked to act as Hon. Treasurer.

Fire Brigade

After some discussion it was unanimously arranged to appoint a Committee consisting of Bailie Howie, Judge M'Callum and Councillor Hargan (Convener) to consider the advisability of procuring a suitable pump for the Fire Engine, and to report. It was also remitted to the Hon. Firemaster and the Firemaster to report the names of the persons who had voluntarily assisted the Brigade in their efforts to extinguish the fire.

Page 260               18/10/1923

Council in Committee

Ashton Fire

Accounts of £44 14s 4d and £33 6s 8d by the West Renfrewshire Fire Brigade Committee and the Corporation of Greenock, for the attendance of their Fire Brigades at the recent fire in Ashton, were submitted. There were also submitted (1) letter dated 10th inst. from Mr. Robert Murray, M.P., expressing his sympathy with those who had lost property and homes through the Fire, and asking the Council to let him know if there was any point in which they thought he could be of service, and (2) letter from Mrs. Ferguson, 3 Ashburn Gate, offering to make a house to house canvas in support of the Relief Fund. The Provost mentioned that it was proposed to form a Committee to arrange a house to house canvas, and to go into the losses sustained by the householders, and it was resolved to remit the two accounts and the two letters to a Committee consisting of the Provost (Convener), Bailie Moodie, and the Convener and Sub Convener of the Fire Brigade Committee, with powers.

It was remitted to Councillor Hargan and the Burgh Surveyor to report as to damage to clothing, etc., of Members of the Fire Brigade and Volunteers.

Page 218               13/11/1923

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Fires

The Firemaster reported that since last meeting the Brigade had been called out as follows :-

October     9th                       Fire at Ashton Church &c. Damage say £25,00 *

October   14th                       Fire at 76, Kempock Street (Chimney)

October   18th                       Fire at 20, Adelaide Street (Chimney)

October  22nd                       Fire at 70, Kempock Street (Chimneys)

November 8th                       Fire at Ashtower Damage say £15 *

( * The two damage figures were scored out and initialled)

It was remitted to the Firemaster to ascertain and report whether prosecutions followed in cases where the Brigade was called out in connection with chimney fires, and it was remitted to the Hon. Firemaster to report whether repairs recommended by the Firemaster or himself were carried out.

Fire Brigade Equipment

The Firemaster reported as to hose, ladders, etc., required by the Brigade. It was resolved to remit the matter to the Convener, the Hon. Firemaster and the Firemaster to consider and report.

Fire Engine

It was resolved to add Councillors Foster and Mathie to the Committee appointed on 11th ulto. to consider the advisability of procuring a suitable pump for the Fire Engine, and to appoint Councillor Mathie Convener, and Councillor Foster Sub-Convener of such Committee. The Committee were also asked to consider and report in regard to Fire Brigade service.

Page 235               29/11/1923

Council in Committee

Fire Engine

The Convener of the Fire Brigade Committee intimated that Halley's Industrial Motors Limited, had offered to give a demonstration of their fire pump in the Burgh tomorrow afternoon. It was arranged that such demonstration should take place at 3 o'clock in the afternoon, and that as many members of the Council as possible should be present on the occasion.

Page 241               6/12/1923

Fire Brigade, &c., Committee

Fires

The Firemaster reported that, since last meeting, the Brigade had been called out to a fire at Goldenberry Terrace, occasioned through a chimney having gone on fire. It was mentioned that a prosecution in the Police Court had followed.

Report by Firemaster

The Firemaster's Annual Report was submitted and considered satisfactory, with the exception of the paragraph relating to drills.

Fire Brigade Equipment

It was remitted to the Convener and Sub-Convener to obtain offers for the new ladder and the new hose required by the Fire Brigade. They were asked to submit to the next meeting of the Committee the offers for the hose, and were given power to accept the best offer received by them for the ladder.

The Convener and the Clerk were asked to report to next meeting in regard to the insurance of the Fire Appliances while in use at fires.

Fire Engine

The Convener referred to the demonstration given by Halley's Industrial Motors, Limited, on 30th ulto. It was remitted to the Committee appointed on 11th October and 13th ulto. to proceed with their remit.

Page 241a

Fire Station                           

Gourock:                December, 1923.

ANNUAL REPORT BY FIREMASTER FOR YEAR TO DATE

Gentlemen,

                   I beg to submit my second Annual Report. During the year the Brigade was called out to nineteen outbreaks of fire, being more than last year. Of these calls nine were to defective chimneys, three to overheating of vents or fireplaces, two were caused by sparks from other chimneys, one to a defective grate, one caused by the overheating of tar, one to Tower Drive where children had set fire to the whins, and, owing to the high wind, there was danger of the fire spreading to properties adjoining, and one to where fire was suspected only.

Fortunately, only three were of a destructive nature viz:- (1) The Tennis Pavilion in Broomberry Drive, a wooden erection, which was completely destroyed, the estimated damage being over £300 : (2) Store and Greenhouse at Dr. Robertson's, Barrhill Road, where, in addition to the Building a large stock of Records was destroyed, and, unfortunately the Owner's little son was badly burned about the face and hands. The loss here was also about £300 : (3) Ashton Church, Ladybank, and Alma Place. This was the most disastrous fire that has occurred in the Burgh for a great many years. The fire originated in the roof of the Church, and, there being a very strong gale blowing from the west, the whole Church was in a very short time a mass of flames. The sparks and charred pieces of timber were soon falling on the adjoining properties in a perfect shower and the two immediately to the east, Ladybank and Alma Place, caught fire at different points. Despite the efforts of the firemen, it was impossible to save Ladybank, which was completely consumed by the fire, but it was prevented from spreading beyond the gable dividing the western from the eastern portion of Alma Place. In these properties eight families were rendered homeless. Threatened outbreaks were caused by sparks at Clydemount, Broomberry House, and Rokeby in Barrhill Road, and at Marie Don Villa in Broomberry Drive, but these were extinguished before much damage was done. The total loss caused by this fire is estimated at about £25,000. When it was seen that the fire was likely to prove very serious, the Greenock and Renfrew County Brigades were called to assist, and their services prevented the fire assuming larger proportions than it did. Fireman Lamont had his eyes burned, and was off duty for fully a week. The Fire Brigade appliances also suffered - the extension ladder and nearly 500 ft. of hose, together with a number of couplings, being completely destroyed.

New tyres were fitted to the Fire Motor Tender during the year. The back tyres are almost done, and will have to be renewed also. The engine radiator was also repaired.

A number of fire plugs were tested, and any found not working satisfactorily were overhauled. Several of the older plugs are getting very stiff to turn, and will have to be taken off and reground.

I understand it has been decided to hold the drills during the day instead of in the evening as formeraly.

I have made inspection of the Picture Houses in the Burgh and have found them working in accordance with the regulations.

I wish to take this opportunity of acknowledging the valuable assistance rendered during the year by Ex-Firemaster McEwan, and by Police Inspector Russell and his staff.

                                                                Your obedient Servant

                                                                            John Christie

                                                                                Firemaster

Page 251               20/12/1923

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade Equipment

The Hon. Firemaster having been called into the meeting, submitted four offers for the new hose required by the Fire Brigade. After considering such offers and examining the samples, the Provost moved that the offer of Messrs. Mc Gregor & Co., Dundee, for 500ft of their "Waverley" Hose should be accepted. This was seconded by Councillor Mathie. Judge Walker moved as an amendment that Mr. Gilmour's offer for "Ajax" Hose be accepted, and this was seconded by Councillor Foster. On division, Judge Walker and Councillor Foster voted for the amendment, and the Provost, Bailie Howie, Treasurer Morrison, and Councillor Mathie and Wood, voted for the motion, which was declared carried. Bailie Moodie and Councillor Hargan did not vote.

It was remitted to the Hon. Firemaster to obtain offers for the new couplings required for the hose, and to submit same to the next meeting of the Fire Brigade Committee. Such Committee were given powers to accept the offer which they consider most favourable.

Page 257a

Fire Brigade Wages for Year Ending December 1923

John Christie                         £21 - 16 - 0             including £8 Salary and £4 - 11 - 6 for Ashton Fire

David Ritchie                        £12 - 10 - 6             including £4 Salary and £3 - 13 - 6 for Ashton Fire

William Melville                   £11 - 16 - 0             including £3 Salary and £3 - 13 - 6 for Ashton Fire

Alex Lamont                          £10 - 10 - 0             including £3 Salary and £2 -   1 - 6 for Ashton Fire

Arthur Russell                      £11 -   3 - 6             including £3 Salary and £3 - 13 - 6 for Ashton Fire

John Gallacher                      £10 -   0 - 0             including £3 Salary and £1 - 11 - 6 for Ashton Fire

Assistants                             £10 - 15 - 0             (John McEwan, George Grimshaw, James Melville Jr.)

John Christie attended 18 Fires, 8 Drills and 1 Examination of a property for a fire.

1924

Page 3                    10/1/1924

Fire Brigade &c., Committee

Fires

The Firemaster reported that, since last meeting, the Brigade had been called out to two fires in Shore Street, a fire in Victoria Road, and a chimney fire in Kempock Street.

Burgh Storeman

Motor Driver

It was reported that the Convener and Sub-convener had seen Mr. Gallagher in regard to his application for increase in wages. They recommended that Mr. Gallagher be paid £3 - 10s a week inclusive of overtime and receive in addition the fees to which he was entitled as a Member of the Fire Brigade. They said Mr. Gallagher was willing to take charge of the Burgh Store, and keep the usual records in addition to his other duties. After some discussion, it was resolved to remit the matter back to a Sub-Committee consisting of .............................for further consideration, and to report.

Fire Brigade Equipment

The Hon. Firemaster submitted two written and reported one verbal offer for couplings required for the Fire Hose. It was resolved to remit these offers to the Convener and Hon. Firemaster with power to accept the offer they consider most suitable.

It was also remitted to the Convener and Hon. Firemaster to procure cutters and rubber gloves for the use of firemen in dealing with electric wires.

Page 20                 31/1/1924

Council in Committee

Burgh Storeman

Motor Driver

The Convener of the Fire Brigade &c., Committee reported that the Committee appointed on 10th inst. recommended (1) That Mr. Gallagher be paid £3 - 10/- a week, inclusive of overtime, and receive in addition the fees to which he was entitled as a Member of the Fire Brigade and (2) that Mr. Thomas Melville receive a temporary appointment, during the pleasure of the Council, as second driver of the Fire Engine and Ambulance Wagon, for which he should receive the usual remuneration. These recommendations were unanimously approved of.

Page 25                 7/2/1924

Fire Brigade &c., Committee

Fires

The Firemaster reported that, since last meeting, the Brigade had been called out on two occasions, and that he had attended a fire in Barrhill Road. The damage in each case was small.

Motor Driver

It was reported that Mr. Thomas Melville had accepted the appointment of second driver of the Fire Engine and Ambulance Wagon, and that he had asked for boots and an overall. It was resolved to remit these matters to the Convener, with powers.

Fire Plugs

It was remitted to the Convener and the Hon. Firemaster to procure a dozen "FP" plates.

Fire Engine

Fire Brigade

The Firemaster having retired from the meeting, the Convener said that, after a recent meeting of the Committee held last night, the Driver of the Brigade had made a complaint regarding the removal of material from the Fire Engine, and that complaints had been made by other Firemen, from which it appeared there was a want of harmony among Members of the Brigade. After some discussion, it was remitted to the Convener, the Sub-Convener, and the Hon. Firemaster to enquire into the matter, and to report to the Council in Committee.

Page 35                 21/2/1924

Council in Committee

Fire Engine

Fire Brigade

The Convener reported that, when he last visited the fire Station, there appeared to be more harmony among Members of the Brigade, and the Clerk reported that no written complaints had been received by him from any of the Brigade. It was therefore recommended that no action be taken in regard to the complaints referred to in the Minute of the last meeting of the Fire Brigade, &c., Committee. The Council approved.

Page 37

Fire Engine

The convener of the Fire Brigade, &c., Committee mentioned that he hoped to arrange with the makers of another Fire Engine to give a demonstration in the Burgh.

Page 47                 6/3/1924

Fire Brigade &c. Committee

Fire Engine

It was remitted to the Convener and the Hon. Firemaster to report to next meeting in regard to the back axle and tyres of the Fire Engine.

Fires

The Firemaster reported that since last meeting the Brigade had been called out on four occasions, namely to a chimney fire in Hopeton Street, a fire in Cove Road, a fire in stables in Hopeton Street and a chimney fire in Ashburn Gardens, and that he had himself attended to a fire in Chalmers Street.

On the suggestion of Bailie Howie, it was resolved to recommend that the Firemaster, should, in future, report the approximate cost of the attendance of the Brigade at each fire.

Page 68                 27/3/1924

Council in Committee

Fire Alarms

It was remitted to the Convener of the Fire Brigade Committee to arrange for connecting up the alarm bells to the Firemen's houses with the new Police Station, and also to arrange for a private telephone from the Police Station to the Fire Station with a switch to the house occupied by the driver of the Fire Brigade.

Page 69                 3/4/1924

Fire Brigade &c. Committee

Pressure Gauge

The Hon. Firemaster said he was of the opinion the Pressure Gauge was not accurate. The Committee recommended it should be sent to Kilmarnock to be put right.

Fire Brigade

It was remitted to the Hon. Firemaster to procure a pair of boots for the second driver of the Brigade, and to report in regard to the new lamps which the Firemaster recommended should be obtained.

Fire Engine

The Convener and the Hon. Firemaster reported in regard to the back axle and tyres of the Fire Engine. Mr. Duthie explained that the Drum of the Foot Brake required repair, and it was remitted to the Convener and him to procure a new Drum and have it fitted by the Driver.

Plates for Fire Plugs

The Hon. Firemaster submitted designs for plates for fire plugs, and explained that about eighty plates were required. It was remitted to the Convener and him to obtain another estimate and to accept the most favourable offer for white metal plates.

Page 95                 1/5/1924

Fire Brigade &c. Committee

Fire Engine

It was reported that Messrs. Watkinson & Co. had offered to arrange a demonstration of their Fire Engine in Dumbarton any Saturday afternoon. It was remitted to the Convener and the Hon. Firemaster to arrange such demonstration for a suitable date, when it was hoped most of the members of the Committee would be present.

Fireman's Lamps

It was remitted to the Hon. Firemaster to procure two electric lamps similar to the sample exhibited at the meeting, at a cost of 32/- each.

Page 104               8/5/1924

Finance Committee

Ashton Fire

The accounts of £44 - 14s - 4d and £33 - 6s - 8d from the West Renfrewshire Fire Brigade and the Corporation of Greenock for the attendance of their fire brigades at the fire in Ashton last autumn were again submitted, together with an account of £16 - 2s from the Greenock Corporation for damage done to their fire appliances by such fire............... Bailie Howie moved that the three accounts be paid, .............. The Provost moved as an amendment that the accounts incurred to the Greenock Corporation be sent to the Representatives of the Ashton Church, but his amendment not seconded, ................... Another amendment the accounts be remitted to a small Committee. On a division the motion was carried.

Page 127               5/6/1924

Fire Brigade &c. Committee

Fires

The Hon. Firemaster reported that the expenditure in connection with the Fire Brigade for the year ended 15th. ulto amounted to £454 - 9s - 3d.

Fire Appliances

It was remitted to the Firemaster to obtain a "M'Lean" Spray Nozzle at the cost of £4 - 4s

Fire Engine

The Convener reported in regard to Messrs. Watkinson & Co.'s recent Demonstration in Dumbarton. It was remitted to the Hon. Firemaster and him to ascertain whether a pump similar to the one used at this Demonstration, could be used in connection with the present Fire Engine and to report.

It was remitted to the Convener to obtain new tyres for the back wheels of the Fire Engine.

Page 146               26/6/1924

Council in Committee

Ashton Fire

Submitted letter dated 19th inst. from Messrs. A. & G. Gray, Fire Assessors, Glasgow, stating that they were willing to recommend the Insurance Companies interested to pay £31 - 11s - 6d towards the account for the services of the Greenock Fire Brigade at this fire. The Council unanimously approved of the matter being settled this way.

Page 158               7/8/1924

Fire Brigade &c. Committee

Fire Engine

Submitted two offers for tyres for the back wheels of the Fire Engine, which were remitted to the Convener and the Hon. Firemaster with authority to accept the offer found to be the more favourable.

The Hon. Firemaster reported meeting with Representative of Messrs. Mather & Platt, who was of the opinion it was not advisable to fit to the Council's Fire Engine a pump similar to the one used at the recent demonstration in Dumbarton. After some discussion, it was remitted to the Conveners of the Fire Brigade, Water, and Works Committees to consider the matter further, and to report to the Council in Committee.

Page 203               2/10/1924

Fire Brigade &c. Committee

Fires

The Firemaster reported that the Brigade had not been called out to any fires in the Burgh since 5th. July last, and thereafter left the meeting.

Page 235               11/11/1924

Fire Brigade &c. Committee

Firemaster

The Hon. Firemaster reported that the Firemaster was at present in the Greenock Royal Infirmary undergoing a slight operation, and Fireman Ritchie was in charge of the Brigade during his absence.

Page 259               4/12/1924

Fire Brigade &c. Committee

Fire Alarms

The Convener expressed the opinion the Committee should consider the provision of public fire alarms in the east and west end of the Burgh. It was remitted to the Hon. Firemaster to obtain certain information, and to report.

1925

Page 1                    8/1/1925

Fire Brigade &c. Committee

Report by Firemaster

The Firemaster's report for the year ended 31st. ulto. was submitted, and considered satisfactory.

Fire Brigade Equipment

The Firemaster submitted sample new Ventilo Helmet Respirator, which had been sent to him by Messrs. Eeds & Co., Manchester, for approval. He recommended that this sample be purchased, and, after some discussion, the Committee instructed him accordingly.

Fire Brigade

Ambulance Training

The Firemaster reported complaints regarding the non-attendance of certain members of the Brigade at the Fire Station. He was instructed to advise the Brigade that they must attend the Station in turn, on the nights allocated to them, and to report to the Committee any failure to so attend.

Judge Walker enquired how many members of the Brigade had Ambulance training. The Firemaster explained that he and another member of the Brigade had such training. Councillor Hargan having mentioned that he had been endeavouring to get up an ambulance class, it was resolved to remit to the Convener and him to see if such a class could be arranged, and report.

Fire Alarms

The Clerk reported meetings and correspondence with the Post Office Telephones Department in connection with the proposed public Fire Alarms, and explained the Department required to know the sites of the proposed alarms before they could give an estimate of the cost. After some discussion, the Clerk was instructed to ask the Department for an estimate of the cost of two alarms, the one in Cardwell Road near Goldenberry Terrace, and the other in Albert or Ashton Road near Ashton Place, and to report.

Page 1A

Fire Station                           

Gourock.             5 Jan, 1925

To the Provost, Magistrates and Councillors of the Burgh of Gourock.

Gentlemen

                I beg to submit my third Annual Report.

During the year the Brigade was called out, Twenty two times to outbreaks of fires, this being three times more than last year. Of these calls, nine were defective chimneys, four due to overheating of vent or fireplaces, two to spark from fires, two to Motor Cars, two to cigarette ends, two to parafin lamp explosions and one to leakage of gas.

Fortunately only two of these were of destructive nature, the first was Mr. Craig House 13 Adelaide St. where the kitchen with its content were completely destroyed, the damage is estimated at £100. The second was at the railway station where a third class carriage was destroyed also a portion of the roof, the estimated damage is £350.

All the Fire plugs in the Burgh were tested and any that was not working properly were repaired.

During the year three new plugs were installed, one at Mr. Tarbet's new houses Ashton Rd., one in Ashton Terrace and one at the Cottage Hospital.

During the year new tyres were fitted on the rear wheel of the Motor Tender, other repairs were done by your own Staff.

I have much pleasure in reporting that no accidents occured to any of the members of the Brigade during the year.

Opportunity is taken here of acknowledging the assistance of the Police Inspector and his Staff.

                                                                I am

                                                                Gentlemen

                                                                Your Obedient

                                                                John Christie      Fire Master

Page 8                    13/1/1925

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

The third matter which the Provost mentioned to Colonel Mac Innes Shaw was that Town Councils (with one or two exceptions) were not entitled to recover any proportion of the expenses incurred through the attendance of the Burgh Fire Brigade at fires in their Burghs. He said he understood a clause giving power to recover one half of such expenses had been inserted in the draft Burgh Police (Scotland) Amendment Bill, prepared by the Convention of Burghs, which was at present under the consideration of the Scottish Office, and Colonel Mac Innes Shaw said he would be glad to support the desires of the Convention in this respect.

On the motion of the Provost a cordial vote of thanks was accorded the M.P. for his attendance and encouragement.

Page 25                 5/2/1925

Fire Brigade &c. Committee

Fire Engine

Submitted letter dated 2nd inst. from Mr. McNaughton, Paisley, intimating that a demonstration of Mr. Simonis's Trailer Pump was to be given at the Paisley Fire Station towards the end of the month. The Committee were of the opinion this demonstration should be attended by the Convener, the Firemaster, and any other Members of the Committee who might find it convenient to attend.

Page 56                 5/3/1925

Fire Brigade &c. Committee

Fires

The Firemaster read his report for February, from which it appeared that, during that month the Brigade had been called out to two fires, in Kempock Place and Adelaide Street. It was mentioned that a similar fire had recently broken out in the same house in Adelaide Street, and it was remitted to the Hon. Firemaster to see the Factor, and, if necessary, to communicate with the Owner of the property, and to report.

After some discussion it was remitted to the Firemaster to obtain from the Driver of the Fire Engine a written report in regard to the difficulty alleged to have arisen in getting the Engine out of the Fire Station to attend the fire in Adelaide Street, and to report.

Fire Hose

The Firemaster reported that about 250 feet of old hose in the Fire Station had been found to be defective, and recommended that 400 feet of new hose be obtained. It was resolved to defer consideration of the matter until the May meeting of the Committee.

Fire Alarms

The Clerk reported letter dated 19th. ulto. from the District Manager of the Post Office Telephones in regard to the proposed fire alarms in Cardwell Road and Ashton Place. It was resolved to consider the offer contained in this letter at the next meeting of the Committee.

Page 79                 9/4/1925

Fire Brigade &c. Committee

Fires

The Firemaster read his report for March, from which it appeared that, during that month, the Brigade had been called out to two small fires in Tower Drive and Kempock Street.

The Firemaster mentioned that he had received written reports from Fireman Ritchie and the Driver of the Fire Engine in regard to the difficulty referred to in the Minute of the last Meeting of the Committee. The Reports stated that there had been no breakdown of the Fire Engine on the occasion referred to, and the Committee considered this satisfactory.

Fire Engine

Submitted letter dated 3rd. ulto. from the Scottish Representatives of Mr. Simonis. It was mentioned that the demonstration in Paisley of the Simonis Trailer Pump had been satisfactory, but, after some discussion, it was resolved to allow the matter to lie over till next meeting

Fire Alarms

It was resolved to defer consideration for another month of the offer contained in the letter dated 19th February last from the District Manager of the Post Office Telephones, and the Firemaster then left the meeting.

Page 141               4/6/1925

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Fire Hose

Submitted two offers for fire hose. It was resolved to recommend that the offer of Messrs. Richards, Ltd., Aberdeen, for 400 feet of hand woven A A hose should be accepted.

Page 165               6/8/1925

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Driver

Fire Engine and Ambulance

It was remitted to the Hon. Firemaster to see the Second Driver of the Fire Engine and to report to the Council in Committee. In the event of the services of the first Driver not being available when the Fire Engine or Ambulance was required, the Hon. Firemaster was authorised to arrange for the services of the Driver of the Council's Morris Wagon.

The Hon. Firemaster reported that the Fire Engine was under repair, but was expected back shortly. The Firemaster then left the meeting.

Page 210               1/10/1925

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Fire Engine

After some discussion, it was remitted to the Hon. Firemaster to obtain and submit to the Committee prices of (1) a new Fire Engine, and (2) a suitable pump for the existing Engine.

Page 211A

Municipal Buildings

GOUROCK October 1925

To the Provost, Magistrates, and Councillors of the Burgh of Gourock

Lady and Gentlemen,

                                I beg to submit my fourth Annual Report.

During the year the Brigade were called out to eight outbreaks of fire, being fourteen less than last year. Of these calls :-

2 were in respect of defective built grates.

2 of accumulation of soot behind grates

1 of defective chimney

1 of gas pipe leakage setting fire to woodwork round fire place

1 of overheating, and

1 of a spark from shunting engine.

Fortunately only one of these fires was of a destructive nature, this being a fire in a railway wagon filled with goods for the Caledonian Steam Packet Company. The damage at this fire is estimated at over £100.

I also examined Mr. Cleat's property in Kempock Street where a chimney had been on fire but found all in good order.

During the year the Brigade tested all the fire plugs in the Burgh, and any that were found defective were put in working order. Four new plugs were installed during the year.

I had some of the older fire hose tested and 400 feet of which were found to be of little use were replaced by new hose.

During the year extensive repairs were carried out on the motor tender.

I have much pleasure in reporting that no serious accidents occurred to any of the members of the Brigade during the year.

During the year I have made several inspections of the Picture House in the Burgh, and found everything in accordance with the regulations.

I take this opportunity of acknowledging the assistance rendered by Inspector Henderson and his staff during the year.

                                                                I am,

                                                                                Lady and Gentlemen,

                                                                                                Your obedient Servant

                                                                                                John Christie

                                                                                                Fire Master

Page 212               6/10/1925

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Driver

Fire Engine and Ambulance

The Committee interviewed (1) Mr Gallacher, the first driver of the Fire Brigade and Ambulance; (2) the Firemaster; and (3) Mr. Thomas Melville, the second driver of the Brigade and Ambulance. Mr. Melville said in the course of his interview that he would be quite satisfied if the Committee appointed another person as second driver of the Brigade and Ambulance, provided he was continued as a member of the Fire Brigade, as at present.

After the conclusion of the interviews, Treasurer Morrison moved that Charles Neilson, the Driver of the Council's Morris Wagon, be asked to drive the Fire Brigade and Ambulance, when the services of the first Driver were not available, and that on terms to be afterwards arranged, and that Mr. Melville be continued as a member of the Fire Brigade, as at present. The motion, which was seconded by Councillor Mathie, was unanimously agreed to.

Page 240               12/11/1925

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Fire Engine and Ambulance

It was remitted to the Convener and the Hon. Firemaster to obtain a suitable spare battery for the Fire Engine and Ambulance, with powers.

Fire Brigade

The Firemaster reported that one of the Firemen had recently intimated a verbal claim in respect of damage to his hand at the fire at the Railway goods station on 2nd. July last. The Committee were of the opinion that on account of the delay in intimating the claim, it could not now be entertained.

Page 257               3/12/1925

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Alarm Bells

The Committee recommended that the fire bell in Mr. Russell's house in Kempock Street should be removed to his new house in Park Terrace (although it was outside the usual distance), and that a new bell should be fitted up in Mr. Melville's house in Florence Place.

Firemaster's Salary

The Firemaster having retired from the meeting, the Committee considered an application by him for an increase of salary. After some discussion, it was resolved to leave the matter over till the end of the Council's financial year.

Page 269               17/12/1925

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

Councillor Campbell reported interview and arrangement made by him with the Firemaster, and that the Firemaster was fitting up a private bell between the Police Station and his house for use in case of small fires, where it was not thought necessary to turn out the Fire Engine. The Council approved.

1926

Page 12                 21/1/1926

Council in Committee

Fire Engine

Submitted offers from Mr. R.V. M'Naughton, Paisley, of (1) Simonis Fire Engine, and (2) demonstration of Simonis Trailer Pump. It was remitted to the Burgh Surveyor to arrange the date and place of the proposed demonstration, and to report.

Page 39                 4/3/1926

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Fire Engine

The Firemaster having reported that the Fire Engine had now been overhauled, and was again in working order, left the meeting.

Submitted letter dated 3rd. inst., from Rennie Motors Ltd., offering a demonstration of their new light type Dennis Fire Engine in the Burgh. It was remitted to the Hon. Firemaster to endeavour to arrange such demonstration for the forenoon of the 19th.

Page 66                 8/4/1926

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Fire Engine

It was reported that a demonstration on 19th. ulto., of the new light type Dennis Fire Engine had been very satisfactory. The Committee were of the opinion that, provided a sufficient price could be got for the old Fire Engine, it might be advisable to purchase a Dennis Fire Engine, but, before making any definite recommendation, remitted to the Hon. Firemaster to advertise the old engine for sale, and to report.

Driver of the Fire Engine, Etc.

The Firemaster having left the meeting, the Clerk submitted application dated 7th. inst., by the first driver of the Fire Engine, etc., for an increase of wages. The Committee were reminded that the last application for increase of wages had been dealt with by the Works Committee at their meeting on 8th. December last, and resolved to remit the present application to the Works Committee to consider and dispose of.

Page 144               5/8/1926

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Firemaster's Salary

The Committee having considered the application by the Firemaster for an increase of salary, submitted to their December meeting, unanimously resolved to recommend that no increase of salary be given.

Page 165               2/9/1926

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Fire Engine

The Hon. Firemaster reported that the Fire Engine was being advertised for sale. He was asked to report further as soon as possible. The Firemaster then left the meeting.

Accounts for year ending 15th May, 1926 show the Fire Department cost £337 - 17s - 9d and had assets of Fire Appliances £411 - 12s - 10d and Fire Engine £186 - 13s - 4d.

Page 189               7/10/1926

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Fire Engine

After hearing a report from the Hon. Firemaster, the Committee recommended that it be remitted to him to have the Fire Engine advertised for sale in one of the trade papers. The Firemaster then left the meeting.

Page 218               16/11/1926

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Firemaster's Annual Report

The Firemaster submitted his fifth annual report, which the Committee considered satisfactory.

Fire Engine

The Hon. Firemaster mentioned correspondence in regard to the Fire Engine, and was asked to report further as soon as possible. The Firemaster then left the meeting.

Page 219A                                            REPORT BY FIREMASTER

To:- The Provost, Magistrates, and Councillors of the Burgh of Gourock

I beg to submit my fifth annual report.

During the year the Brigade was called out twenty one times. Of these calls six were defective chimneys, three due to sparks from grates, two to paraffin lamp explosions, two to whins, one motor bus, one to timber under hearths, and six times examining buildings where fire was suspected. I am sorry to state that one of the paraffin lamp explosions ended with fatal results, namely :- Mrs. Kerr 3 Royal Street.

Fortunately all of the fires were of a trifling nature.

All the fire plugs were tested and any defective ones were put in working order.

During the year three new plugs were installed. One at Mr. Tarbet'

s new houses, Cloch Road, and two at Park Terrace.

I have much pleasure in reporting that no accidents occurred to any of the members of the Brigade.

I inspected the Picture Houses in the Burgh and found them working in accordance with the regulations.

Opportunity is here taken to acknowledge the assistance of Inspector Henderson and his Staff.

                                                                                John Christie

                                                                                Firemaster

Municipal Buildings

GOUROCK : 16th. November, 1926

Page 239               2/12/1926

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Fire Engine

The Clerk reported offer dated 1st inst., from Mr. D.O. Young, Motor Agent, and that, since last meeting, no further letter had been received in regard to the Fire Engine. After some discussion, Bailie Mathie moved that Mr. Young's offer should be accepted and a new "Dennis" Fire Engine purchased at a satisfactory price. This was seconded by Councillor Campbell. The Provost moved as an amendment that the proposal to purchase a new Fire Engine be carried forward for six months, and this was seconded by Judge Walker. On a division, the Provost, the Hon. Treasurer, Judge Walker, and Councillor Gilmour voted for the amendment, and the other five members of the Committee voted for the motion, which was declared carried. The Committee then gave instructions that the price of the proposed new "Dennis" Fire Engine be ascertained from Mr. Young, and reported to their next meeting. The Firemaster then left the meeting.

1927

Page 1                    6/1/1927

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Fire Engine

Submitted letter dated 5th. inst., from Mr D.O. Young, asking permission to withdraw his offer of 1st ulto. The Hon. Firemaster reported enquiry recently received for the Council's present Fire Engine. In the event of any offer being received for that Engine, the Convener and the Hon. Firemaster were given power to accept it, if considered satisfactory. The matter of the purchase of a new Fire Engine was remitted to the Council in Committee. The Firemaster then left the meeting.

Page 26                 8/2/1927

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Firemaster's Monthly Report

The Firemaster reported that since last meeting there had been two fires in the Burgh, namely :- a small fire in John Street, and a fire in Larkfield House, Adelaide Street, by which considerable damage was done. The Convener said he had been at the last mentioned fire, and that, in his opinion, the Brigade deserved great credit for the efficient way in which they had dealt with the outbreak.

Fire Brigade

It was remitted to the Convener, the Hon. Firemaster, and the Firemaster to purchase such additional lights for use of the Brigade as they considered necessary, with powers.

The Firemaster mentioned the second Driver's clothing had been damaged at the fire at Larkfield House, and then left the meeting. The Committee resolved to defer consideration of the matter until the usual claim had been received.

After some discussion it was moved that the second Driver be appointed a member of the Brigade. There was an amendment and a second amendment which was eventually carried that the matter be delayed until the Council had obtained a new Fire Engine.

Fire Engine

The Hon. Firemaster reported recent enquiry for the trial run of the Fire Engine. He was instructed to report further as soon as possible.

On the motion of Bailie Mrs. Young, it was remitted to the Hon. Firemaster to communicate with Messrs. Dennis Bros., and ascertain the cost of the Fire Engine for which Mr. Young recently tendered and the date on which delivery could be given, and to report to the next meeting of the Council in Committee.

The Convener reported letter dated 7th. inst., from the Patentees of the "Magpie" Fire Appliance. The Committee were of the opinion consideration of the matter should be left over until a decision had been come to in regard to the new Fire Engine.

Page 35                 17/2/1927

Council in Committee

Fire Engine

Submitted letter dated 10th inst., from Messrs. Dennis Bros., Ltd., stating the cost of the Fire Engine referred to at the last meeting of the Fire Brigade Etc. Committee. The Burgh Surveyor reported he had also received an offer of another Fire Engine at a considerably higher price. After some discussion, Councillor Smith moved that the offer contained in Messrs. Dennis Bros. Ltd.'s letter of 10th inst., be accepted, on the understanding that the vehicle would be fitted with a self starter at the additional cost of £14 and should also be fitted with pneumatic tyres. This was seconded by Councillor Campbell. The Chairman moved as an amendment that the matter be delayed until the Council had disposed of their present Fire Engine. This was seconded by the Hon. Treasurer. On a division, the Chairman, Hon. Treasurer, and Judge Wood voted for the amendment, and the four other Members of the Council now present voted for the motion, which was declared carried.

Page 40                 24/2/1927

Council in Committee

Fire Engine

Submitted offer dated 22nd. inst., from Mr. D.O. Young for the Council's present Fire Engine. It was resolved to accept this offer, and to remit to the Chairman and the Convener and Sub-Convener of the Fire Brigade Etc. Committee to accept the offer dated 10th. inst. from Messrs. Dennis Brothers Ltd., submitted to the last meeting of the Council in Committee, on the understanding that the vehicle would be supplied through Mr. Young, with powers.

Page 48                 8/3/1927

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Firemaster's Monthly Report

The Firemaster also reported that, since last meeting, there had been two fires in the Burgh, namely :- a small fire in a house in Manor Crescent East and a fire at the back of the Ashton U.F. Church. He explained that the fire in Manor Crescent had been caused by the fusing of an electric wire, and that he did not consider the manner in which the wire had been left satisfactory. The Clerk was asked to look into the Firemaster's powers in this connection, and to report

Page 85                 17/5/1927

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Fire Engine

Submitted letter dated 9th. inst., from Messrs. Dennis Brothers, Ltd. The Committee unanimously approved of the arrangements made by the Convener and Bailie Mathie and the Hon. Firemaster when they visited the Factory on 9th. inst., as set forth in this letter. The Firemaster then left the meeting.

Page 115               16/6/1927

Special Meeting of Council

Fire Engine

The Burgh Surveyor reported Dennis Bros., Ltd., expected to dispatch the new Fire Engine this week, and the Chamberlain was instructed as to the settlement of the price of the Engine.

Page 120               23/6/1927

Council in Committee

Fire Engine

Submitted letter dated 21st. inst., from Mr. A.G. Rennie to the Burgh Surveyor, stating that the new Fire Engine had been put on rail on Monday, and would be driven down to Gourock after it arrived in Glasgow. Mr. Rennie enquired when the official test of the new engine was to be made. Mr. Duthie mentioned the Fire Engine was now in Glasgow, and the Council fixed Saturday, 2nd prox., at 2 o'clock, for the official test.

Page 129               30/6/1927

Council in Committee

Fire Engine

Arrangements were made for the official test of the new Dennis Fire Engine on Saturday first. The Clerk reported he had arranged with the Municipal Mutual Insurance to insure the new Engine against the usual risks. The Council approved.

Page 138               9/8/1927

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Firemaster

The Convener expressed the Committee's regret at the accident sustained by the Firemaster at the trial of the Dennis Fire Engine, and congratulated the Firemaster on his recovery.

Fire Engine

The Firemaster stated he was thoroughly satisfied with the test of the new Dennis Fire Engine, and that he was of the opinion the Committee should procure a few of the "Tolmie" nozzles tried at such test. It was remitted to the Hon. Firemaster and him to report to next meeting how many nozzles they would recommend should be obtained, and as to the cost thereof.

The Clerk reported letter dated 11th. ulto., from the Municipal Mutual Insurance Ltd., stating that, on account of the increased value of the new Fire Engine, the annual premium on their Policy would be increased by £1. It was remitted to the Chamberlain to pay the proportion of such premium to the next renewal date of the Policy.

It was reported one of the members of the Brigade had fitted up seats on the new Fire Engine, and put a division in the hose box. After some discussion, it was remitted to the Hon. Firemaster and the Firemaster to report to next meeting what sum they would recommend should be paid to such member of the Brigade in respect of the improvements carried out by him.

It was remitted to the Hon. Firemaster and the Firemaster to procure a basket for the nozzle of the suction hose for the new Fire Engine, and a supply of hose bandages and slings, with powers.

The Firemaster mentioned he had been approached by the Representative of one of the leading Fire Insurance Companies as to whether the services of the Brigade would be available in case of fires in the County. It was remitted to the Clerk to confer with the County Clerk as to this, and to report.

Fire Brigade

Second Driver

After some discussion, the Convener moved that the second Driver of the Fire Engine be appointed a member of the Fire Brigade. This was seconded by Councillor Hunter, and unanimously agreed to.

Fire Extinguishers

The Convener reported letter dated 28th. June last, from the Manager of Minimax, Ltd., suggesting fire extinguishers should be procured for the new Fire Engine, the new Morris Wagon, Gourock House etc. After some discussion, it was remitted to the Convener to report, and also to report as to the proposed purchase of new hose for the Fire Brigade.

Page 160               6/9/1927

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Firemaster's Report

The Firemaster reported that since last meeting, there had been a fire at Craigmushat Quarry, when considerable damage was done.

Fireman's Lamps

After some discussion, it was remitted to the Convener, the Sub-Convener, the Hon. Firemaster, and the Firemaster to procure suitable lamps or batteries for the members of the Brigade, with powers.

Fire Escape

The Firemaster produced and explained a "Davy" Automatic Fire Escape, which he recommended the Committee to procure at the cost of, say, £7 - 4s. After some discussion, it was remitted to the Hon. Firemaster and the Firemaster to arrange for a demonstration of this Fire Escape at Gourock House at 3 o'clock on Saturday afternoon.

Fire Engine

It was reported the Hon. Firemaster had no reply from the maker of the "Tolmie" Nozzles. The remit in connection with the matter was accordingly continued.

The Hon. Firemaster reported he had examined the improvements on the new Fire Engine carried out by one of the members of the Brigade, and was of the opinion £3 would be a fair sum to pay such member in respect of such improvements. The Committee unanimously agreed to authorise such payment.

The Clerk reported meeting with the County Clerk in regard to the services of the Brigade being available in the case of fires in the County. He was instructed to report further as soon as possible.

Page 185               11/10/1927

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Fire Escape

The Clerk reported letter dated 29th. ulto., from the Horne Engineering Co., Glasgow, in regard to the "Davy" Automatic Fire Escape referred to in the Minute of the last Meeting of the Committee. The Committee were of the opinion the demonstration at Gourock House on 10th. ulto., had shown that this fire escape might be useful to the Brigade, and, on the motion of the Convener, seconded by Bailie Mrs. Young, unanimously resolved to recommend that the offer of the Escape contained in the Horne Engineering Co.'s letter to the Firemaster of 22nd. August last should be accepted.

Fire Engine

After hearing a recommendation from the Hon. Firemaster and the Firemaster, it was unanimously resolved to remit to the Hon. firemaster to procure three "Tolmie" nozzles, at the approximate cost of £3 - 16s - 6d

Fire Extinguishers

Fire Hose

The remit to the Convener and the Hon. Firemaster in connection with Fire Extinguishers was continued ; and, on the motion of the Convener, seconded by Councillor Gilmour, it was unanimously resolved to recommend that 600ft. Waverley Brand fire hose be procured from Messrs. Macgregor & Co., Dundee, at the cost of £45, and that it be remitted to the Hon. Firemaster to also procure six sets of couplings thereof.

Fireman's Lamps

The Hon. Firemaster reported the batteries of the lamps for the members of the Brigade had been renewed, and a new lamp purchased. The Committee approved.

Page 214               10/11/1927

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Fire at Larkfield House

The Hon. Firemaster reported verbally in regard to this property and said that, while it was old, he could not say it was dangerous. He also reported the Owner of the property had died recently, and was asked to report further, should anything new emerge.

Fire Engine

Mr Duthie also reported it had been found the largest of the three "Tolmie" nozzles which he had been instructed to procure would not fit the branch pieces. The Committee recommended the order should be restricted to the two smaller size nozzles. The Firemaster then left the meeting.

Page 234               6/12/1927

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Firemaster's Report

The Firemaster reported that since last meeting the Brigade had been called out to five small fires in the Burgh, namely :- (1), a fire on 13th ulto. at 9 Kempock Place, (2), a fire on 19th ulto. in the shop, 74 Shore Street, (3), a fire on 19th ulto at the Ashton U.F. Church and Craigbank, (4), a fire on 21st ulto. in house, 8 Bath Street, and (5), a fire on 24th ulto. in house, 12 Caledonia Crescent.

He also reported as to testing 700 feet old fire hose. After some discussion, it was remitted to the Hon. Firemaster and the Firemaster to have such hose tested at a pressure of, say, 70 lbs., and to report.

The Firemaster also submitted his Report for the year to 30th ulto., in which it was mentioned that this was the Jubilee Year of the Brigade.

Fire Brigade

Mr Duthie submitted two offers for the boots referred to in the Minute of the October meeting of the Committee. It was resolved to recommend that the offer of Messrs Samuel Duley & Sons, Gourock, be accepted.

Fire Extinguishers

The Convener recommended that three Fire Extinguishers be installed in Gourock House, and two in the Gamble Institute. This recommendation was approved of, and, after some discussion, it was resolved to recommend that the offer of Messrs William Miller (Glasgow) Ltd., to supply five 'William Miller'' Patent Concussion Fire Extincteurs, two gallon ''F.O.C.'' design, at the price of 50s each, should be accepted, and that it be remitted to Mr Duthie to have one extinguisher fitted up on each of the floors of Gourock House and of the Gamble Institute. It was also remitted to Mr Duthie to obtain further information regarding extinguishers for the Fire Engine and the Burgh Stores, and to report to the Council in Committee.

Page 234A

Municipal Buildings

Gourock, 28th November, 1927.

To the    Provost, Magistrates, and Councillors of the Burgh of Gourock.

Lady and Gentlemen,

                                                I beg to submit my Sixth Annual Report. During the year the Brigade was called out twenty times to outbreaks of fire.  Of these, five were due to chimneys being on fire, three to sparks from grates, one to defective building of grate, one to fused electric wire, three to whins set on fire, one on Yacht in Cardwell Bay, one caused by cigarette end, one to overheating of exhaust pipe at Craigmuschat Quarry, one to back smoke, one to cinders dropping from a Fish Shop Cooker and two to leakage of gas. All these were of trifling nature except two. One was at Larkfield House where three tenants were rendered homeless for a considerable time, the damage here being over £600. The second was at Craigmuschat Quarry, the damage being estimated about £1100. This caused a portion of the Quarry to be shut down and a good many hands thrown out of work. In the case of the fire caused by leakage of gas, I am sorry to state that a young plumber was overcome with gas in a house at 12 Caledonia Crescent and had to be removed to the Greenock Infirmary.

All the fire plugs in the Burgh have been tested and any defective ones have been put right.

The old Fire Engine has been replaced by a Dennis Engine of the latest improvement, which was tested on 2nd July and passed a satisfactory test. There has also been added to the equipment a life saving device of the latest construction should the egress of any one be cut off by fire. 600 ft. of hose has been purchased, also two of the Tolmie patent nozzles. During the year I have inspected the Picture Houses in the Burgh and found everything working satisfactory.

I have much pleasure in reporting that this is the Jubilee Year of the Fire Brigade as will be seen by the accompanying report.

Opportunity is taken here of acknowledging the assistance rendered by Inspector Henderson and his staff during the year.

                                                                I am,

                                                                Your obedient Servant

                                                                                John Christie

                                                                Fire Master

Page 213C

Excerpt from Minute of the Works Committee

held on the 29th Octr. 1877

After some consultation the Committee recommended that a Fire Brigade be formed at once and also recommended that Mr Russell, Slater, take charge of the matter at an annual salary of Three Pounds Stg., he providing three men to be afterwards named and approved of at a salary of Thirty shillings each, and they also be provided with helmets and tunics, and all the necessary implements; and when engaged at a fire the foreman to receive 3/6 for the first hour; 2/- for the second hour; and 1/3 for every hour afterwards.

The three men under him to be paid 3/- for the first hour; 2/- for the second hour; and 1/- for every hour afterwards.

For the purpose of keeping the Brigade up to a proper state of efficiency they will be bound to practice with the fire apparatus six times a year; and the foreman take upon himself the responsibility of keeping the apparatus in proper working order.

Page 244               15/12/1927

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

Fire Alarm Bell

Submitted letter dated 9th. inst. from District Manager of the Post Office Telephones, and relative Agreement in regard to the Fire Alarm Bell installed in Charles Neilson's house. The Clerk was instructed to sign this Agreement on behalf of the Council, and to return it to the District Manager.

Page 246

Fire Extinguishers

The Burgh Surveyor recommended that a "William Miller" Patent Concussion Fire Extincteur should be procured for the Fire Engine, and two of Messrs William Miller (Glasgow) Ltd.'s "Petrofoam" Extincteurs should be procured, one for the Fire Engine and the other for the Burgh Stores in Royal Street. The Council unanimously approved.

1928

Page 50                 6/3/1928

Fire Brigade Etc, Committee

Firemaster's Report

On the motion of Convener, seconded by Councillor M'Morland, it was remitted to the Hon. Firemaster to procure a stand pipe for the fire plugs from Glenfield & Kennedy, Ltd., at the price of £3. The Firemaster then left the meeting.

15/5/1928 Assets show Fire Engine (Motor) £835 - 13s - 4d

Page 175               6/9/1928

Fire Brigade Etc, Committee

Fire Brigade

The Firemaster suggested waterproofs should be procured for the use of the Members of the Brigade while testing the pump attached to the Fire Engine and that another length of suction hose should be obtained for the Fire Engine. After some discussion, it was remitted to the Firemaster to report what length of suction hose would be required for use to low water mark, and it was resolved to further consider the two suggestions at next meeting. The Firemaster then left the meeting.

Page 200               9/10/1928

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Fire Brigade

The Firemaster reported as to the length of suction hose which would be required, provided water was being drawn from the sea at low water mark. After considerable discussion regarding the length of such hose which could be operated by the Fire Engine, it was remitted to the Convener and Sub-Convener to go into the matter with the Hon Firemaster and the Firemaster, and to report. Thereafter the Hon. Treasurer moved that the Committee recommend that meantime other two lengths of suction hose be procured. This was seconded by Councillor Smith. Councillor M'Morland moved as an amendment that no additional hose be procured until the above mentioned report had been received. The amendment not being seconded, the motion became the finding of the meeting.

The Committee then considered the Firemaster's suggestion that waterproofs should be procured for the use of Members of the Brigade while testing the Fire Engine and hose. After some discussion, Councillor Smith moved that seven waterproofs be procured for such use. This was seconded by Councillor M'Morland and agreed to. It was remitted to the Hon. Firemaster to obtain and submit estimates for the waterproofs. The Firemaster then left the meeting.

Page 263               11/12/1928

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Fire Brigade

The Convener reported it would not in his opinion be wise to attempt to put the Fire Engine on the foreshore, and that he thought the present length of suction hose was adequate. Some discussion having taken place as to whether the supply of water in the main in Albert Road would be sufficient in the event of an extensive fire in that neighbourhood, Bailie Rees-Pedlar moved that it be remitted to the Convener, the Firemaster and the Hon. Firemaster to test this, and to report. This was seconded by Councillor Smith, and unanimously agreed to.

The Hon. Firemaster submitted two offer for waterproof coats for the members of the Brigade, and relative samples. Councillor M'Morland moved that the offer of Cathcart Rubber Co., Greenock, for seven coats at 18/11 be accepted. This was seconded by Councillor Shepherd. Councillor Smith moved as an amendment that the offer Messrs George M'Lennan & Co., Glasgow, for seven coats at 23/6 be accepted. This was seconded by Bailie Mrs Young. On a division Bailie Mrs Young and Councillor Smith voted for the amendment and the other four members of the Committee now present voted for the motion, which was declared carried.

Page 268A

Municipal Buildings,

Gourock, 29th November, 1928.

To the provost, Magistrates, and Councillors of the Burgh of Gourock.

Lady and Gentlemen,

                                                I beg to submit my seventh annual report. During the year 1927-28 the Brigade was called out to 22 outbreaks of fire. These consisted of :-

                1.             Chimneys on fire                                                                                  11

                2.             Fires caused by defective built grates                                                2

                3.             Sparks from grates                                                                                 3

                4.             Whins on fire                                                                                          1

                5.             Fires caused by dropped matches or cigarette ends                        4

                6.             Outbreak at Messrs. James Adam & Son’s Shipbuilding yard     1

                                                                                                                                                22

The damage to the last mentioned property was over £300, but the other outbreaks were of a trifling nature.

All the fire plugs in the Burgh have been tested during the year and any found defective have been repaired.

During the year two lengths of new suction hose have been procured for the fire engine.

I have much pleasure in reporting there have been no accidents to any of the members of the Brigade.

During the year I inspected the Picture Houses in the Burgh and found everything working satisfactorily.

Opportunity is taken of acknowledging the assistance of Inspector Henderson and his Staff.

                                                                                Your obedient Servant.

                                                                                                John Christie

                                                                                                Fire Master.

1929

Page 16                 24/1/1929

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

Mr. Duthie submitted plan showing the positions of various water mains in the west end of the Burgh, and reported 500/600 feet of hose might be required to take a supply of water from Victoria Road in the event of a serious fire in the Ashburn area. He recommended a new six inch water main be laid in Hillside Road, at the approximate cost of £180, an said Firemaster had at present 900 ft of good hose in stock, but was of opinion a further supply was necessary. After some discussion, the question of the proposed new main was remitted to the Fire Brigade Etc., Committee to consider and report. The Firemaster then left the meeting.

Page 31                 12/2/1929

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Fire Hose

After hearing a report from the Firemaster, it was remitted to the Hon. Firemaster to obtain and submit offers for 300ft of additional hose.

Fire Engine

After hearing a report from the Hon. Firemaster regarding the better lighting of the back of the Fire Engine, it was resolved to defer further consideration of the matter until next meeting. Judge Wood and the Firemaster then left the meeting.

Page 57                 11/3/1929

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Fire Hose

Three offers for 300ft of additional hose and relative samples, were submitted. After some discussion and comparison, Councillor Hunter moved that "Waverley" hose be procured. This was seconded by Judge Wood, and unanimously agreed to. Councillor Hunter then moved that the offer of the Horne Engineering Co., Glasgow, for such hose be accepted. This was seconded by Judge Wood, and agreed to.

Fire Engine

The Convener recommended a portable light be obtained, and a reflector with a moveable arm put on the Fire Engine. It having been explained the cost would be small, the recommendation was unanimously agreed to. Submitted letter dated 28th. ulto. from the Depute Executive Officer of the Renfrewshire Education Authority, enquiring whether the Committee were agreeable to the Firemaster acting in concert with a Committee which had been appointed by the Authority relative to steps which night be taken to minimise the danger by fire in ( inter alia ) each of the schools in the Burgh. On the motion of Councillor Smith, seconded by Councillor M'Morland, the Committee instructed the Clerk to reply that the Committee would be pleased to allow the Firemaster to co-operate with the Education Authority's Committee.

Tower Drive

The Firemaster reported that a fence had recently been erected across the line of the continuation of this street, which prevented the Fire Brigade's access to the Fire Plug and valve in such continuation. The Clerk was instructed to write the Factors of the Gourock Estate and ask them to arrange for having this fence set back.

Page 84                 9/4/1929

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Firemaster's Report.

The Firemaster reported the Brigade had, on 7th ulto., tested the fire plugs in the Larkfield Road districts and in Manor Crescent and Caledonia Crescent, and had found same in order, with the exception of one plug in Grenville Road and one in Manor Crescent ; had on 20th ulto. tested the plugs in Cardwell and Cove Road districts, and had found same in order except one in Cardwell Road and two in Cove Road ; and had, on 28th ulto., tested the plugs in Shore Street district and had found same in order. He further reported all the defective plugs had now been put right.

He also reported that, since last meeting, the Brigade had been called out to four fires, namely :-(1) On 3rd ulto. to whins on fire on the Tower Hill, (2) on 9th ulto. to a fire in a house at 1 Steel Street, (3) on 15th ulto. to a chimney on fire at Park Place, and (4) on 22nd ulto. to a motor car on fire in Cloch Road. He mentioned that, when the Brigade turned out to the last mentioned fire, it was found the motor car was a short distance beyond the Burgh Boundary, and that the Brigade expenses amounted to £4 - 0s - 6d. The Clerk was instructed to ask the owner of the car for payment of such expenses.

The Firemaster enquired what procedure he should follow, in the event of the Brigade being asked to attend future fires beyond the Burgh Boundaries. After some discussion, it was remitted to the Clerk to ascertain from the County Clerk whether the Brigade had the County Council's authority to answer such calls, and to report in regard to the insurance of the Members of the Brigade while attending outside fires. Thereafter Councillor Hunter moved that, prior to an understanding being come to with the County Council, the Brigade should answer any such calls received, provided payment of the expense was guaranteed. This was seconded by Councillor Smith. Bailie Rees-Pedlar moved as an amendment that the Firemaster, before answering any such calls, should also obtain by 'phone authority to do so from the County Firemaster, and this was seconded by the Provost. On a vote being taken, the Provost, Bailie Rees-Pedlar, Judge Wood, and Councillor Shepherd voted for the amendment, and the other four members of the Committee present voted for the motion. The voting being equal, the Convener gave his casting vote in favour of the motion, which he declared carried.

Page 101               25/4/1929

Monthly Meeting of Council

Minutes

The Minute of the meeting of the Fire Brigade Etc., Committee of 9th inst., was submitted and held as read, and Councillor Gilmour moved and Councillor M'Morland seconded, it's approval. Bailie Rees-Pedlar moved as an amendment that the third paragraph under the heading "Firemaster's Report" be not approved, and that, until an understanding was come to with the County Council, the Firemaster, before attending future fires beyond the Burgh Boundaries, should obtain by 'phone authority to attend such fires from the County Firemaster. This was seconded by Councillor Shepherd. On a vote being taken the Provost, Bailie Rees-Pedlar, Judge Wood, and Councillor Shepherd voted for the amendment, and Councillors Gilmour, Hunter, M'Morland and Smith voted for the motion. Bailie Mrs. Young did not vote, and, the voting being equal, the Provost gave his casting vote in favour of the amendment, and declared the said paragraph not approved.

Page 113               7/5/1929

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Fire Engine

The Firemaster said he was of the opinion the Pump on the Fire Engine should be tested oftener than at present. After considerable discussion, it was, on the suggestion of Councillor Shepherd agreed to that the Convener should, before the next meeting of the Committee (without any previous notice), call out the Brigade at a time and place to be selected by him, and have the Pump tested, and report. The Convener was also asked to report as to the time required for (1) the drills, and (2) testing the Pump. The Firemaster then left the meeting.

Page 126               16/5/1929

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

The Clerk reported there was nothing in the Council's Insurance policy to prevent the Fire Brigade attending Fires outside the Burgh Boundaries.

Page 143               11/6/1929

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Fire Engine

The Convener mentioned that the tests referred to in the Minute of the last meeting of the Committee had not yet been carried out, but that he hoped to be in a position to report very shortly.

The Hon. Firemaster referred to the want of proper facilities for drying the hose after use, and suggested same might be dried in a shaft, to be erected in the store at the Refuse Destructor. After some discussion, it was resolved to take the matter up at the next meeting of the Committee, to which the Hon. Firemaster was asked to report further.

The Firemaster reported the proceedings at a Demonstration in Glasgow of a Dennis Fire Engine, similar to that belonging to the Council, and submitted note of results obtained by the Glasgow Fire Brigade when testing the Engine. Mr. Christie, who was thanked for his report, then left the meeting.

Point of Interest ?

Greenock Motor Services Ltd. announced that tramcar services in the Burgh would cease on the 15th July, 1929.

Page 172               6/8/1929

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Firemaster's Report

The Firemaster reported that, since last meeting, the Brigade had been called out to five small fires, namely ( 1) On 3rd June to a fire at 76 Kempock Street, (2) on 5th June to a chimney on fire at 27 Hopeton Street, (3) on 11 th June to a chimney on fire at 16 Shore Street, (4) on 5th ulto. to a chimney on fire at 33 Hopeton Street, and (5) on 16th ulto. to a motor bus on fire in Albert Road.

The want of facilities for drying the hose after use was again considered. The Hon. Firemaster suggested the Fire Station might be heated by hot water pipes, in which case provision might be made for drying the hose in a small erection adjoining. After some discussion, it was resolved to take the matter up at the next meeting of the Committee, and that meantime the Hon. Firemaster should confer with the Chairman and prepare a sketch of his proposals, and an estimate of the probable cost.

Submitted letter dated 27th June, from the County Clerk, in regard to the attendance of the Brigade at fires outwith the Burgh Boundaries, and stating his Committee were of opinion the arrangements they had already made were sufficient. The Firemaster reported his meeting with the Owner of Castle Levan, who was anxious to have and willing to pay for the services of the Gourock Brigade, should he desire same in an emergency, and submitted a statement showing the distance of the house and lodges, etc., from the sea at high and low water. After considerable discussion, Councillor Shepherd moved that, as Castle Levan is outwith the Burgh Boundaries,  the Committee regret they can enter into no agreement. This was seconded by the Provost. Councillor Hunter moved as an amendment, that, provide Mr Currie confirmed in writing his conversation with the Firemaster, the Gourock Fire Brigade should attend any fire at Castle Levan to which they were called. This was seconded by Judge Wood. Bailie Rees-Pedlar moved as a further amendment that Mr Currie be asked what retaining fee he is prepared to pay for the services of the Gourock Fire Brigade. This was seconded by Councillor Smith. On a vote being taken between the two amendments the Provost, Bailies Mrs Young and Rees-Pedlar, and Councillors M' Morland, Shepherd, and Smith voted for Bailie Rees-Pedlar's amendment, and Judge Wood and Councillor Hunter voted for Councillor Hunter's amendment.

A vote was then taken between Bailie Rees-Pedlar's 's amendment and the motion, when Bailies Mrs Young and Rees-Pedlar, and Councillors M'Morland and Smith voted for the amendment, and the Provost and Councillor Shepherd voted for the motion. Judge Wood and Councillor Hunter did not vote, and, said amendment was declared carried.

National Fire Brigades' Association

Circular Letter dated 23rd. ulto., and reports, etc., from this Association, inviting the Committee to subscribe £1 - 1s annually for copies of the official reports and literature issued by their Fire Prevention Dept., was submitted. After discussion, the Chairman moved that the Committee make no recommendation. This was seconded by Bailie Mrs. Young, and agreed to.

Fire Hose

It was remitted to the Hon. Firemaster and the Firemaster to purchase a breeching piece for use on the fire hose, at an estimated cost of £2. The Firemaster then left the meeting.

Page 215               19/9/1929

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

Councillor M'Morland reported meeting this afternoon with Mr. Currie, and that it had been suggested the Fire Engine should be tested on the foreshore opposite Castle Levan, and that the Brigade should have an Annual Drill at Castle Levan. He said Mr. Currie was willing, if the test was satisfactory, to make an annual contribution of £5 to the Council. It was unanimously resolved to accept Mr. Currie's offer, and to remit to Councillor M'Morland to make the necessary arrangements for the test of the Fire Engine.

Page 226               8/10/1929

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Fire Brigade

The Clerk read his letter, dated 1st. inst., to Mr. Currie, Castle Levan, and Mr. Currie's reply of 5th. inst., setting forth the terms on which the services of the Brigade would be available to Mr. Currie, should he require them. The Firemaster said the Brigade were to have a fire test at Castle Levan on Saturday first.

Fire Station

The Hon. Firemaster reported he was still awaiting a tender for the proposed heating of the Fire Station. It was arranged he should report to the next meeting of the Council in Committee.

Firemaster

The Committee considered a complaint against the Firemaster in connection with the recent fire at 52 Shore Street. After hearing the Firemaster, it was, on the motion of Councillor Smith, seconded by Bailie Mrs. Young, unanimously resolved to uphold his action.

Dangerous Buildings

It was remitted to the Clerk to report to next meeting the Council's powers to compel alterations of premises which the Firemaster considered unsatisfactory from a fire danger point of view. The Firemaster then left the meeting.

Page 259               12/11/1929

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Firemaster's Report

The Firemaster further reported in regard to the Demonstration at Castle Levan on 12th ulto., which he said Mr. Currie considered very satisfactory.

Fire Brigade

Two offers for Firemen's boots were opened and initialled by the Convener. On the motion of Judge Mrs. Young, it was unanimously resolved to accept the offer of Messrs. Samuel Duley & Sons (the lowest), for four pairs.

After hearing the Hon. Treasurer, it was resolved to allow circular regarding the insurance of the Brigade against personal accidents to lie on the table, as he was of the opinion the members were already sufficiently insured.

Dangerous Buildings

The Clerk reported that, in his opinion, the Committee had no power to compel owners  of property to alter existing buildings in cases where the Firemaster considered there was danger from fire. The Firemaster then left the meeting.

Page 263               14/11/1929

Works Committee

Fire Station

Mr. Duthie reported that, if the materials for the proposed heating of the Fire Station were purchased, and the work done by Burgh Employees, the total cost would be, say, £42 - 15s. Councillor M'Morland moved that the work be done in this way. This was seconded by Councillor Smith, and agreed to. Mr. Duthie was however asked to submit a sketch of the piping to the Council in Committee for approval.

Page 275               21/11/1929

Council in Committee

Fire Station

The Burgh Surveyor submitted plan showing the proposed piping in connection with the heating of the Fire Station. The Council considered the plan satisfactory, and instructed the Surveyor to have the work proceeded with as soon as possible.

Page 291               10/12/1929

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Firemaster's Report

The Firemaster submitted his Report for the year to 30th. ulto., a copy of which was handed to each of the Committee.

The Clerk reported letters dated 18th & 22nd ulto., from Mr. Currie, stating the recent Demonstration at Castle Levan had been very satisfactory, and that the Agreement between the Council and him was now in force. The Firemaster them left the meeting.

Page 294A

Fire Station,

Gourock. November, 1929.

To the Provost, Magistrates, and Councillors of the Burgh of Gourock.

Lady and Gentleman,

I beg to submit my Eighth Annual Report. During the year the Brigade was called out thirty one times, which is a record for any one year.

These calls were made up of :-

                Chimneys on Fire                                                   9

                Back Smoke                                                             4

                Motor Cars on Fire                                                3

                Fires caused by Electrical fittings                       3

                Examining Properties                                             2

                Fire, Fish Supper Shop                                          1

                Fires from Sparks                                                   1

                Boys setting wood on fire                                    1

                Coals on fire caused by over heating                 2

                Fire in Timber under hearth                                  3

                Whins on Fire                                                         1

                Call to Gourock House                                          1

                                                                                                31

All the fires were of trifling nature, with the exception of one, where four families were rendered homeless for a considerable time and damage was done to the extent of £650.

All the Fire Plugs in the Burgh have been tested and any that were not working properly repaired. Seven new plugs have been added to the list, 1 in Larkfield Road, 1 at Gourock House, 3 in Cardwell Road, 1 in Margaret Street, and 1 in Hillside Road. When the new water main in Cloch Road is finished other four plugs will be added, making a total of l45 Plugs.

During the year the Brigade tested the pressure of the water at Ashburn and found there was not sufficient pressure to keep the fire engine working. The Council decided to connect up the water main at the junction of Tower Drive and Victoria Road with the main in Albert Road, and laid a new 6" main down a portion of Hillside Road, then through the grounds of Cragburn, and connected it with the main in Albert Road. This now gives an ample supply of water.

These was also a shortage of water at Gourock House. Here again the Council decided to put in a new water main. A new 3" pipe was laid off Larkfield Road, and a fire plug in the roadway at the front door of Gourock House was inserted. The Council also laid a new 4" pipe in that portion of Cardwell Road between the Pullman Garage and Sharp Street on the south side, and inserted three 4" valve fire plugs, which the Brigade tested and found they had a splendid supply of water. I might say these 4" valve fire plugs save a lot of time and hose, as the Brigade can connect the suction hose direct to them.

Mr. Currie, Levanne, asked the Gourock Fire Brigade to give their assistance should a fire occur on his estate. An interview was arranged between the Council and Mr. Currie. The Council decided that the Gourock Fire Brigade would give their services if required, and a Demonstration was given on 12th October which pleased all concerned. In addition the Brigade also gave a Demonstration at the Pier and at Gourock House.

I have much pleasure in reporting that no accident occurred to any of the Members of the Fire Brigade during the year.

Opportunity is taken of acknowledging the assistance given by the Inspector of Police and his Staff.

                                                                I am,

                                                                Your obedient Servant

                                                                                John Christie

                                                                                                                Fire Master

1930

Page 5                    14/1/1930

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Firemaster's Report

The Firemaster reported that, since last meeting, the Brigade had been called out to (1) a fire in Kempock Street on 12th ulto., (2) a fire in Barrhill Road on 15th. ulto., (3) a fire in Royal Street on 28th. ulto., (4) a fire in Manor Crescent (West) on 28th. ulto., and (5) a motor car on fire at Lunderson Bay on 31st. ulto. The Firemaster stated he was not at the Fire Station when the call for the last mentioned fire came through, and that instructions had been given that the Brigade was not to attend fires, other than at Castle Levan, outside the Burgh Boundaries. It was remitted to the Chamberlain to render the account for the charges incurred in connection with the fire at Lunderson Bay to the owner of the motor car.

Page 55                 11/3/1930

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Fire Brigade

Mr. Duthie reported the Manager of the Gourock Picture House had offered to fit up in the Picture House an emergency Fire Alarm, provided the Committee supplied the necessary cable. On the motion of Councillor Smith, seconded by Judge Mrs. Young, it was remitted to him to have this done.

Mr. Duthie reported claim by the District Manager of the Post Office Telephones for an increased rental in respect of the removal of the Fire Alarm Bell to Mr. Melville's new house. The Clerk was instructed to obtain some further information in regard to this claim, and it was resolved to remit the matter to the Convener, with powers.

Page 81                 8/4/1930

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Firemaster's Report

The Firemaster reported that, since last meeting, the Brigade had been called out on 8th. ulto. to a chimney fire at 4 Bath Street, and on 29th. ulto. to a fire at 48 Cardwell Road. He also reported the Brigade had on 6th. ulto. white-washed and painted the Fire Station, after the installation of the new heating arrangements.

The Firemaster enquired what was to be done in the event of the Brigade receiving a call to attend a fire at the Rev. Mr. Reid's house, which was just outwith the Burgh boundary. After discussion, Bailie Rees-Pedlar moved that, meantime, the Brigade do not attend such a fire, unless they receive a guarantee that all expenses will be paid. This was seconded by the Provost, and agreed to. The Firemaster then left the meeting.

Page 111               6/5/1930

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

National Fire Brigades' Association

Submitted letter dated 25. ulto., from the Secretary of this Association, in regard to the National Safety First Week, 19th. to 24th. prox. Councillor Shepherd moved that this letter lie on the table, and this was seconded by the Provost. Councillor Smith moved as an amendment that samples of the literature offered by the Association be obtained, and this was seconded by the Convener. On a vote ............................the motion was declared carried. The Firemaster then left the meeting.

Page 178               12/8/1930

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Fire Hose

The Firemaster reported there was in stock 700 feet of old hose, which was of little use, and 1400 feet of good hose, and asked for 300 feet of new hose. After some discussion, it was remitted to the Hon. Firemaster to obtain and submit to next meeting offers for 300 feet of hose, and to report the date and quantity of the last purchase.

Fire Alarm Bells

The Clerk reported correspondence with the Post Office Telephones in regard to the removal of the Fire Bell from Mr. Melville's old house to his new house in Kempock Street, which the Department claimed would increase the annual rental by £1 - 15/-. After discussion, he was authorised to sign the usual Agreement with the Post Office Telephones, so that the work could be carried out.

Fire Drill

The Convener suggested the Brigade might have during the month a Drill at the Bathing Station, so that it could be seen whether the Fire Engine could take a supply of water from the Swimming Pond. The Committee did not approve of the suggestion.

Accounts for year ended 15/5/1930

Fire Department

                                Pay                                                                         £197 -   1 -   6

                                Fire Station, Engine & Appliances                    £117 - 12 -   8

                                Uniforms, &c.                                                       £    9 - 18 -   0

                                Rent, Taxes, & Insurance                                   £  33 - 13 -   8

                                Interest on Suspense Account                          £  30 - 12 - 10

                                Other Payments                                                    £  29 - 14 -   5

                                                                                                                                                £418 - 13 - 1

Loans

                                Carried to Sinking Fund                                      £  13 -   0 -    0

                                Interest                                                                  £  18 -   9 -    8

                                                                                                                                                £  31 -   9 - 8

                                                                                                                                                                £450 - 2 - 9

Assets

                                Fire Department - Appliances            at cost    £518 -    9 -   3

                                Suspense Accounts

                                                                Fire Engine (Motor)             £697 -    0 -   0

Page 207               8/9/1930

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Firemaster's Report

The Firemaster reported that, during the month of August, the Brigade had been called out (1) on 13th. ulto. to a fire on the "Duchess of Montrose", and (2) on 14th. ulto. to a fire at Seaview.

The Clerk was instructed to apply to the London, Midland, & Scottish Railway Co. for payment of the Brigade charges in connection with the fire on 13th. ulto., and to report.

Fire Brigade

It was remitted to the Hon. Firemaster to consider and report as to proposed new smoke helmets for the Brigade.

Fire Hose

The Hon. Firemaster submitted four quotations for the new hose referred to in the Minute of the last meeting of the Committee. After consideration of the offers and samples, Councillor Shepherd moved it be remitted to the Hon. Firemaster to accept the offer of Messrs. M'Gregor & Co., Dundee, for 300 feet "Rob Roy" Hose, with necessary fittings. This was seconded by Judge Mrs. Young, and agreed to. The Firemaster then left the meeting.

Page 231               7/10/1930

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Fire Brigade

The Hon. Firemaster submitted estimates for (1) "Proto" Patent Self Contained Helmet, with oxygen to last one hour, (2) Do. do., with oxygen to last half an hour, and (3) "Spirelmo" Smoke Helmet, with 60 feet of tubing. A sample of the last mentioned Helmet was also submitted.

After discussion Councillor Shepherd moved that, before coming to any decision, the Committee see a "Proto" Helmet with half an hour's oxygen supply. This was seconded by Judge Mrs. Young, and agreed to. It was remitted to the Hon. Firemaster to endeavour to arrange for such Helmet being seen in Gourock.

Page       259         13/11/1930

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Fire Brigade

The Firemaster reported interview with the Firemaster, Glasgow, in regard to "Proto" Helmets, and said Firemen using this helmet had to be specially trained. After considerable discussion, Councillor Shepherd moved that it be remitted to the Convener and the Hon. Firemaster to look further into the matter of Smoke Helmets, and to report. This was seconded by Judge Mrs. Young, and unanimously agreed to.

Some discussion having taken place as to the attendance of the Brigade at fires in vessels lying at Gourock Pier, it was remitted to the Convener, the Hon. Firemaster, and the Clerk to see Mr. Bremner, and report.

Fire Alarm Bells

The Clerk reported letter dated 7th. inst., from the District Manager, Post Office Telephones, stating it had now been found that the increased rental in respect of the removal of the Fire Bell to Mr. Melville's new house should be 17/6 per annum, instead of £1 - 15/-, as stated in the Minute of the Committee's Meeting on 12th. august last.

Page 284               9/12/1930

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Fire Brigade

In the absence of the Convener, the Clerk reported meeting with Mr. Bremner regarding fires that might occur on Railway Steamers lying at Gourock Pier. The report was considered satisfactory.

The Hon. Firemaster submitted letter dated 24th. ulto., from Messrs. Siebe Gorman & Co., London, regarding Smoke Helmets. After the Firemaster had been heard, Councillor Shepherd moved that the Committee purchase an "Antipoys" Short Distance Breathing Apparatus, at the cost of £4 - 10/-. This was seconded by Councillor Henderson, and agreed to.

Page 285A

Fire Station,

Gourock, December, 1930

To the Provost, Magistrates, and Councillors of the Burgh of Gourock.

Lady and Gentlemen,

                                I beg to submit my ninth Annual Report. During the year, the Brigade was called out 27 times to outbreaks of fire - which number is four less than last year's total. These outbreaks consisted of :-

                Chimneys on fire                                                    5

                Accumulations of soot                                         4

                Timber under Hearths                                           3

                Defective Chimneys                                              3

                Motor Cars                                                              2

                Leakage of gas                                                       2

                Examining property for fire                   2

                Tar on fire                                                                1

                Joiner's shop                                                           1

                Painter's shop                                                         1

                River Steamer                                                          1

                Coals on fire, Craigmuschat Quarry                    1

                Straw set on fire by boys                                      1

                                                                                                27

All the fires were of  a trifling nature with the exception of that in the Painter's shop, where the damage amounted to about £150.

During the year the Fire Plugs throughout the Burgh were tested and any found defective were put into good order. During the relaying of Shore Street/Kempock Place, and Kempock Street four new 4" Fire Plug Valves were put in, also a new one to replace an old one at Ashburn, and a new one in that portion of Larkfield Road where the last new houses were built. I may state that these 4" Fire Plug Valves save a considerable time and amount of hose, as the Fire Engine can be connected to them without any trouble.

During the year the Council decided to have the Fire Station heated with a new system, as the old arrangement was found to be out of date. They have a central heating system fitted which comprises a boiler and four radiators. A house for drying the hose was also erected which is fitted with four rows of 4" pipes which have proved to be a great success. All the work was carried out by your own staff. During the year the Council have purchased 300 feet of "Rob Roy" fire hose. I have much pleasure in reporting there were no accidents to any member of the Fire Brigade during the year.

Opportunity is taken of acknowledging the assistance given by the Inspector of Police and his Staff. I have inspected the Picture House in the Burgh, and have found it is worked in accordance with the Act.

                                                                                I am,

                                                                                Your obedient Servant,

                                                                                John Christie

                                                                                                                Fire Master.

1931

Page 6                    13/1/1931

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Firemaster's Report

The Firemaster reported that, during December, the Brigade had been called out, on the 2nd. to a fire at 35 Hopeton Street, and on the 9th. to a fire at 4 Cove Road.

Some discussion having taken place regarding repairs recommended by the Firemaster after a fire, it was unanimously resolved that, after Owners had been asked to carry out repairs, the Firemaster should report to the Hon. Firemaster whether the work had been completed to his satisfaction.

Page 34                 10/2/1931

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Firemaster's Report

The Firemaster reported that the Brigade had been called out on 13th. January to a fire in Victoria Road, and that a Drill had been held in the Fire Station on the 28th., at which the new Smoke Helmet had been tested, and found satisfactory.

On the motion of Bailie Rees-Pedlar, it was remitted to the Hon. Firemaster to ascertain and report to next meeting whether the Makers of the Helmet considered it could safely be used when gas fumes were present.

The Firemaster said it would be an advantage to have other 20 feet of hose for use in connection with the Smoke Helmet. The Hon. Firemaster mentioned the cost would be 25/-, and it was unanimously resolved to remit to him to obtain the extra hose.

Fire Plugs

The Firemaster recommended that, when Cardwell Road was being re-laid by the County Council, a new fire plug of the large type should be put in at the west end of the street, and another at the east end (near the British Linen Bank). The Hon. Firemaster stated he estimated the cost at £7 to £8 each. On the motion of the Provost, seconded by Councillor Smith, it was unanimously resolved to procure the two plugs, and have them fitted in when the street was being re-laid.

Page 59                 10/3/1931

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Smoke Helmet

Submitted letter dated 9th. inst., from the makers of the Smoke Helmet, stating it could safely be used in a gas-filled room, provided the open end of the air tube was led through a door or window into fresh air.

Property - 35 Hopeton Street

The Hon. Firemaster reported that Tradesmen had been carrying out the repairs desired by the Firemaster, but that he did not know whether all the work had been completed. The Firemaster stated the wall was a mutual one, and it was remitted to the Hon. Firemaster to get in touch with the other proprietor interested.

Page 86                 14/4/1931

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Firemaster's Report

The Firemaster reported that, during the month of March, the Brigade had been called out to two small fires at 16 Cardwell Road, the one on 1st. and the other on 29th. inst. The Hon. Firemaster reported that the defects in these houses had now been rectified.

Page 113               6/5/1931

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Firemaster's Report

The Firemaster reported that, during the month of April, the Brigade had been called out (1) on 5th. inst. to a fire in a shop at 42 Kempock Street, (2) on 6th. inst. to a chimney on fire at 1 John Street, and (3) on 18th. inst. to a suspected fire at 29 Shore Street. The Firemaster reported defects in the chimneys of the two last mentioned properties had now been rectified, and then left the meeting.

Page 171               7/7/1931

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Fire Brigade

The Firemaster said he would like two additional Hatchets for the Firemen, and that he estimated the cost at 7/6. On the motion of Judge Mrs. Young, it was unanimously agreed that the Hatchets be procured.

Page 255               12/11/1931

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Fire Alarm

In answer to an enquiry, the Firemaster said the Brigade had been called out on 7th. inst., and that the Police knew nothing of the call. He stated the matter had been reported to the Post Office Authorities, and that, while no report had yet been received, he understood the call wires had been found to be twisted.

Fire Plug Plates

The Firemaster reported additional Fire Plug Plates were required and that some of the old Plates required renewal. He said he estimated 36 Plates were needed. It was remitted to the Hon. Firemaster to take in and submit offers to the next meeting of the Committee.

Fire Apparatus

Reference was made to the advisability of procuring special tools for breaking steel window frames and pavement lights. It was unanimously resolved to remit the matter to the Convener and Sub Convener, the Hon. Firemaster, and Firemaster to consider and report to the next meeting of the Committee.

Page 264               19/11/1931

Council in Committee

Post Office Telephones

Submitted two letters dated 13th. inst., from District Manager, Post Office Telephones enclosing new agreements in respect of (1) Fire Bell Installations from the Police Office to the houses of six members of the Fire Brigade, and (2) Fire Bell Installation from the Police Office to the Fire Station and thence to Mr. Begley's house. It was reported  the new rate for No. (1) was approximately one half of that under the existing Agreement and that the new rate under No. (2) was the same as at present. Mr. Duthie recommended a larger alarm bell should be provided at the Burgh Yard, at the additional cost of 2/- per quarter. It was unanimously resolved to approve this recommendation. (Mr. Begley is first driver )

Page 280               8/12/1931

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Firemaster's Report

The Firemaster reported that, during last month, the Brigade had been called out on the 9th. to a chimney on fire at 25 Cardwell Road.

He also reported that the Brigade had on 6th. ulto., tested the Fire Plugs in Broomberry Drive, Park Terrace, and King, Binnie, and Royal Streets, and that these had all been found in working order. He further reported that a Drill had been held  in the Fire Station on 29th. ulto.

The Firemaster submitted his Report for the year to 30th. ulto., and a copy thereof was handed to each of the members of the Committee. It was resolved to defer till next meeting consideration of such Report, and it was remitted to the Chamberlain to submit to that meeting a note of the cost of the Brigade during the previous year.

Fire Plug Plates

Submitted two offers for Fire Plug Plates, together with a sample plate. On the motion of Judge Mrs. Young, seconded by Councillor Henderson, it was unanimously resolved to accept the offer of Messrs. Dewar, Bros., Glasgow, for four dozen Plates similar to sample.

Page 280A

Fire Station, Gourock

December,1931

To The Provost, Magistrates, and Councillors of the Burgh of Gourock.

Lady and Gentlemen,

                                                I beg to submit my tenth Annual Report.

During the year from 1st December 1930 to 1st December, 1931, the Brigade was called out 20 times, and at 5 of these the Fire Engine was in attendance. The rest were attended by two or three Members of the Brigade. These outbreaks consisted of :-

                                Chimneys on fire                                                                    6

                                Defective chimneys                                                               4

                                Defective built ranges                                                           2

                                Accumulation of soot                                                           1

                                Timber under hearth                                                              1

                                Back smoke                                                                             2

                                Motor Boat                                                                             1

                                Sparks from chimney                                                             1

                                Paper set on fire by boys                                                      1

                                Kindling fire with paraffin                                                     1

                                                                                                                                20

All the fires were of a trifling nature, with the exception of one at Shore Place where Mr. Hanson's motor boat was damaged to the extent of £80.

During the year all the fire plugs were tested and any defective ones put right. All the apparatus has been tested and found in good order.

During the year some of the water mains in the Burgh were found to be very badly corroded. THe Council therefore decided to have these taken out and replaced with larger ones, which consist of a new 4" on to replace a 3" one in Hopeton Street and a 6" one instead of the existing 4" one in Ashton Road. While making these alterations, the Council decided to renew the Fire Plugs in these areas so they were replaced by 3" valve hydrents. Four new 4" hydrents have been added, namely :- one in Cardwell Road, (at Slaughter House), one at east end of Manor Crescent, one opposite Dr. Nicol's house in Albert Road, and one at Westernhouse. A fire cock has been fitted at Mr. Tarbet's new houses in Park Terrace. The total number of fire plugs in the Burgh is 134.

During the year, the Fire Brigade tested their smoke helmets, and, as these were found to be out of date, the Council agreed to replace them with one of the latest types which when tested proved great improvement on the old ones.

When the new houses are finished in Reservoir Road, a new pipe will have to be laid and a number of fire plugs added to the list.

I have much pleasure in reporting there were no accidents to any member of the Fire Brigade during the year.

I have inspected the Picture House and found the management working in accordance with the Government requirements.

Opportunity is taken of acknowledging the assistance given by the Inspector of Police and his Staff.

                                                                                I am,

                                                                                Your obedient Servant,

                                                                                                John Christie

                                                                                Firemaster.

1932

Page 6                    12/1/1932

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Fire Apparatus

The Firemaster reported he had not yet seen the Special Tools for breaking Steel Window Frames, etc., referred to at the November meeting of the Committee, but that he had seen at the Headquarters of the Glasgow Fire Brigade an Aven double bladed saw used by that Brigade. He submitted a sample of this saw, and, after some discussion, Judge Mrs. Young moved that it be remitted to the Hon. Firemaster to procure 1 Saw, similar to the sample. This was seconded by the Provost and unanimously agreed to. The Firemaster then left the meeting.

Fire Brigade

The Convener reported that, during last year, three members of the Brigade, who were also Burgh Employees, had among them, been in attendance at fires in the Burgh during eleven of their ordinary working hours, for which they had received their ordinary wages, amounting in all to 16/9. After discussion, it was, on the motion of Bailie Rees-Pedlar unanimously resolved to take no action, as far as last year's allowances were concerned. Bailie Rees-Pedlar then moved that, in future there be deducted at the end of each year from the allowances for attendance at fires payable to members of the Brigade who are Burgh Employees, any wages received by them from the Burgh in respect of the ordinary working hours embraced in such attendance. This was seconded by Councillor Shepherd. The Provost moved as an amendment that no change be made in the present practice. This was seconded by Councillor Henderson. On a division, the Provost, Judge Mrs. Young, and Councillors Henderson, Macleod, Smith and Stevens voted for the amendment, and Bailie Rees-Pedlar and Councillor Shepherd voted for the motion. The amendment was declared carried.

Bailie Rees-Pedlar then moved that all members of the Brigade, other than the Firemaster, receive the same remuneration for attendance at fires. This was seconded by Councillor Shepherd. The Provost moved as an amendment that no change be made in the present arrangements, and this was seconded by Councillor Henderson. On a division the Provost, Judge Mrs. Young, and Councillors Henderson, Macleod, Smith and Stevens voted for the amendment, and Bailie Rees-Pedlar and Councillor Shepherd voted for the motion. The amendment was declared carried.

Page 33                 9/2/1932

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Firemaster's Report

The Firemaster reported that, during the month of January, six fires had occurred in the Burgh, namely :- (1) on the 4th a small fire at the BB halls, and five chimney fires.

Some discussion took place as to the large number of chimney fires, and it was suggested the Committee should consider whether advice should be given to householders whose chimneys went on fire as to what should be done by them before the arrival of the Brigade. No finding in this connection was, however, come to.

Page 90                 12/4/1932

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Firemaster's Report

The Firemaster also reported that Mr. Mc Ewan had assisted on 11th. January last with the fire at 22 John Street, and suggested he be paid 4/- for his services. Councillor Smith moved that such payment be made. This was seconded by Judge Mrs. Young. Councillor Stevens moved as an amendment that Mr. Mc Ewan be paid 5/6 and this was seconded by Bailie Wood. Bailie Rees-Pedlar moved as an amendment that Mr. Mc Ewan be paid according to the existing scale, but that such payment was not to create a precedent, and this was seconded by Councillor Shepherd. On votes being taken Bailie Rees-Pedlar's amendment was declared carried.

Page 124               4/5/1932

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Fire Brigade

Submitted latter dated 4th inst., from Mr. John Garvie, stating that branches of the beech tree in Broomberry Drive, which overhung Captain Mackenzie's property, required to be pruned, and asking the Committee to allow the Firemaster, with the Fire Ladder, to assist the Estate Forrester to cut off such branches. It was unanimously resolved to give the permission desired, provided it did not entail any expense to the Council, and provided the Estate undertook responsibility for any damage that might be done.

Page 254               11/10/1932

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Fire Extinguisher

The Provost reported that he had been present at a demonstration of the "Pyrene" Automatic Fire Extinguisher for Cinematograph Projectors, which had been given at the Greenock Fire Station on Wednesday last, and which had been very satisfactory.

Page 313               6/12/1932

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Firemaster' Report

The Firemaster reported there had been no fires during the month of November, and that the annual clean-up of the Fire Station had taken place on 24th. ulto

The Firemaster's report for the year to 30th. ulto. was considered and reference was made to the fire caused by an electrical fuse. Councillor Smith moved that the attention of the Greenock Corporation Electrical Department be called to the exposed wires at the property where such fire had occurred, and that they be told the Committee did not approve of the manner in which the work had been done. This was unanimously agreed to.

Fire Brigade

Bailie Rees-Pedlar referred to the wages paid to the members of the Fire Brigade who were also Burgh Employees and after some discussion, moved that the matter be taken up at the next meeting of the Council in Committee. This was seconded by Councillor Stevens, and agreed to.

Page 322A

Fire Station

GOUROCK,           6th. December, 1932

The Provost, Magistrates, and Councillors of the Burgh of Gourock

Lady and Gentlemen,

                                I beg to submit my Annual Report.

During the year from 1st. December, 1931 to 30th. November, 1932 the Brigade was called out twenty times, being the same number as last year. The Fire Engine was in attendance at nine of these, while the rest were attended by two or three members of the Brigade.

These outbreaks consisted of :-

                Chimneys on Fire                                   8

                Defective Chimneys                              4

                Defective built grates                            1

                Roofs on Fire                                          2

                Accumulation of soot                           1

                Electric Fuse                                           1

                Leakage of Gas                                       2

                Window casing                                      1

                                                                                20

All the fires were of a trifling nature.

During the year all the fire plugs in the Burgh were tested and any found defective were repaired.

During the relaying of the new pipe in Reservoir Road the fire plugs were renewed and four new ones installed. A new fire plug was also installed in the recently formed portion of Nelson Road.

A 3 inch valve fire plug was installed during the relaying of the new pipe in Bath Street.

There were no fires in the Burgh during the months of July, October and November.

I have much pleasure in reporting there were no accidents to any members of the Brigade.

The Picture House was examined periodically, also the Pavilion, and each was found to be in accordance with the Act.

Opportunity is taken of acknowledging the assistance given by the Inspector of Police and his staff.

                                                                                I am

                                                                                Your obedient, Servent

                                                                                                John Christie

                                                                                Firemaster

Page 325               15/12/1932

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

The matter of the wages paid to the members of the Fire Brigade who are also Burgh Employees was referred to, and Bailie Rees-Pedlar moved that no change be made during the year just completed, which was unanimously agreed to. The Bailie added that, to enable future wages to be considered, he was to-night giving notice of a rescinding resolution.

Page 329

Notice of Motion

The Clerk read the following Notice of Motion which Bailie Rees-Pedlar intended to move at the next meeting of the Council namely :-

"That the resolution of the Fire Brigade Etc. Committee of date 12th. January last, confirmed by the Council on 28th. January last so far as relating to the present allowances for attendance at fires, payable to members of the Fire Brigade who are Burgh Employees, be recinded."

Page 331               22/12/1932

Monthly Meeting of Council

Motion by Bailie Rees-Pedlar

Bailie Rees-Pedlar moved the motion of which he gave notice on 15th. inst. This was seconded by Councillor Macleod, and unanimously agreed to.

1933

Page 6                    10/1/1933

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Firemaster's Report

Submitted letter dated 31st. ulto., from the Chief Engineer, Greenock Corporation Electrical Department in regard to the wiring of the premises in the lane off John Street, referred to at last meeting of the Committee. After some discussion, Bailie Rees-Pedlar moved that the Clerk writes the Chief Engineer and enquire why it was considered better in the circumstances to employ exposed insulated cables. This was seconded by Councillor Henderson, and agreed to. The Firemaster reported new overalls were required for the Firemen. On the motion of Bailie Rees-Pedlar, seconded by Councillor Henderson, it was remitted to the Convener and Sub-Convener to look into the matter and report.

Page 68                 7/3/1933

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Firemaster's Report

The Firemaster reported that, during last month, one of the Firemen had been called out on the 15th. to a chimney fire at 10 Adelaide Street.

Fire Brigade

Submitted four samples of cloth for Firemen's trousers. It was unanimously resolved to accept Messrs. Moore, Taggert & Co.'s offer of £1 per pair (Sample No. 2)

Page 247               12/9/1933

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Fire Brigade

Reference was made to the arrangement for the attendance of the Brigade at Castle Levan in the event of fire. The Firemaster said Mr. Currie had formed the access road to the sea when the arrangement was made, and it was remitted to the Clerk to get in touch with Mr. Currie in regard to the new access rendered necessary by the widening of Cloch Road, and to report.

Page 279               10/10/1933

Fire Brigade Etc. Committee

Fire Brigade

Submitted letter dated 25th. ulto., from Mr. Currie, Castle Levan, in regard to the new access road to the sea, together with a copy letter from the County Clerk to Mr. Currie, dated 21st. ulto., and copy of Mr. Currie's reply thereto, dated 25th. ulto. Mr. Duthie reported the Fire Engine had been taken to Castle Levan, and that the new access road was neither sufficiently wide nor sufficiently bottomed to enable it to be used by the Engine. He was asked to put his report in writing, and on the motion of Judge Mathie; it was remitted to the Clerk to send the County Clerk a copy of such report, and to advise Mr. Currie this had been done.

Page 283B

ACCESS TO FORESHORE AT LEVAN

Report by Surveyor

By arrangement with Mr. Walter Currie, Levan Castle, the Town Council have undertaken to give the services of their Fire Brigade for extinguishing of any fire at his property any time when called on.

Mr. Currie was at the cost of improving the access road down to the foreshore so that the Fire Engine could get down and pump water to a fire at any state of the tide.

The widening of Cloch Road seawards at this point obliterated the access and a new one has been constructed but it is not of sufficient width or strength to admit a heavy motor vehicle onto the shore. Our Firemaster has tried to get the Engine down but found it impossible.

The road would require to be widened at least four feet at the top and made say fifteen feet in width down the slope. The engine loaded with hose etc. weighs nearly three tons so that a road of fairly strong formation is required.

It must be kept in mind that the engine might be required in the dead of night.

                                                                                                Alex Duthie

GOUROCK : 13th. October, 1933

Page 314               16/11/1933

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Accounts

The Accounts were examined and passed to the Finance Committee

Firemaster's Report.

The Firemaster's report for last month was submitted, from which it appeared there had been Plug Inspections on 3rd, 5th, 10th. and 17th October in (1) Barrhill and Victoria Road, (2) the Albert and Ashton Road, (3) the Broomberry Drive, (4)the Binnie and Royal Street, and (5) the Shore and Kempock Street Districts, and that all the plugs had been found in order except two in the Albert and Ashton Road District. The report also stated the Brigade had been called out on 26th October to a fire at the Kippering Factory, Tarbet Street. that the Firemaster had asked nine Gourock men to assist the Brigade on that occasion, that claims had been sent in by other three men whom the Firemaster had not engaged, but who said they had assisted at the fire, and that some of the hose had burst when water was being pumped through it from the sea. In answer to enquiries, it was reported that, when the hose was tested at the Fire Station, the pressure was about 80 lbs., whereas the pressure when attached to the Fire Engine was about 120 lbs. The Convener reported the Firemaster was of opinion 800 feet of new hose was required, and submitted an offer and samples of new hose. After considerable discussion, Bailie Rees-Pedlar moved that a Sub-Committee be appointed to go into the whole matter of the hose, and report. This having been seconded by Councillor Miller and agreed to, it was unanimously resolved the Sub-Committee be Bailie Rees Pedlar. Councillor Macleod (Convener), and Councillor Stevens. The Sub-Committee were given power to purchase up to 600 feet of hose if they considered this necessary, and it was agreed the makers of any hose purchased be asked for a guarantee as to the pressure the hose would stand.

The Committee approved of the action of the Firemaster in engaging nine extra men to assist the Brigade on 26th ulto., and, the after the claims received from the three other men referred to in the Firemaster's report had been considered, the Clerk was, on the motion of Bailie Rees-Pedlar, seconded by Bailie Wood, instructed to write and thank these men for their services, and to state that, as they had not been engaged by the Firemaster to assist him, the Committee regretted they could not entertain their claims.

Bailie Rees-Pedlar referred to the taking of the Fire Engine down the Slip at Tarbet Street on the occasion of the Fire. He said this difficult feat reflected great credit on the Driver, Mr Begley, and moved that the Committee's appreciation to be recorded in the minutes and a record made on Mr. Begley's dossier. This was unanimously agreed to.

It was remitted to Mr. Duthie to ascertain and report whether any men lived in the Kippering Factory.

Fire Brigade

Submitted letter dated 13th. inst., from Mr. David Ritchie intimating his resignation as a member of the Fire Brigade, which he had joined in April, 1908. Councillor Smith moved that Mr. Ritchie's resignation be accepted, and that he be thanked for his services. This was seconded by the Provost, and agreed to. Councillor Miller then moved that the matter of the filling of the vacancy in the Brigade be remitted to the Sub-Committee appointed earlier in the evening to consider and report. This was unanimously agreed to.

Submitted letter dated 16th. ulto., from the County Clerk, in regard to a new access to the foreshore opposite Castle Levan. The Clerk was asked to report so soon as he heard further from Mr. Fraser, and the Firemaster then left the meeting.

Page 317E

Firemaster's Report for the month of October, 1933.

3rd. Octr.                Plug Inspection Barrhill and Victoria Roads District.

                                All plugs in working order.

5th. Octr.                Plug Inspection Albert and Ashton Roads District.

                                All plugs in working order except two.

10th. Octr.              Plug Inspection Broomberry Drive, Binnie and Royal Streets District.

                                All plugs in working order.

17th. Octr.              Plug Inspection Shore and Kempock Streets District.

                                All plugs in working order.

25th. Octr.              Fire at Kippering Factory, Tarbet Street. Brigade called at 9.45 p.m. When we arrived                            we found one of the sheds on fire. I saw from the first look I got of the place we could                             not save the shed, as the roof was beginning to fall in, so we directed our attention to                               the surrounding buildings. We had three lines of hose led from the Street fire plugs                             and I also had the Fire Engine run down the slip opposite Tarbet Street and had two                            lines of hose led to the fire, but unfortunately some of the hose burst which hampered                                us for some time till we had others put in their place. We had the fire under control                        about 11.30 p.m. but owing to the inflammable nature of the material stored in the                                 buildings the fire made several outbreaks which kept us on the out-look. During the                     fire Mr Bruce had his horse and lorries removed to the street in case his stables should                  go on fire. We returned to the Station about 10.30 next forenoon after seeing                                         everything was all right. I may state there was no accidents to anyone working on the                         fire. The cause of the fire is supposed to be a spark from one of the kilns, which had                             been in use a short time before. Damage will amount to £1,200.

                                The Brigade charge of £22 - 3 - 3d includes the fees payable to nine Gourock men                                 whom I had asked to assist the Brigade.

                                Claims have also been sent in by (1) L.A.Gibson, 113 Newark Street, Greenock, (2)                                Peter S. Watson, 58 Cove Road and (3) William Shields, Gourock House, who say                    they assisted at the fire, but as none of these men was engaged by me, I would                                            suggest they be asked to send their claims to Mr. Stephen or Mr. Bruce

                                                                            John Christie

                                                                                Firemaster

Page 329               23/11/1933

Council in Committee

Kippering Factory

Mr. Duthie reported he had been informed one man lived in this Factory when it was in use, and that such man was a watchman who went from one to another of Mr. Stephen's factories. Mr. Duthie was asked to obtain some further information, and to report to next meeting.

Page 337               30/11/1933

Council in Committee

Mr. Duthie reported meeting with Mr. Stephens, who admitted that, during the season, a watchman stayed regularly in the factory overnight, and that occasionally at busy times a second man also remained. The Provost moved that Mr. Duthie intimate to Mr. Stevens that the Council do not approve of any person sleeping in the Factory and this was seconded by Councillor Smith. Bailie Rees-Pedlar moved as an amendment that Mr. Stephens be asked to meet the Council.................On a vote being taken, the motion was declared carried.

Pages 344             12/12/1933

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Firemaster's Report

The Firemaster's Report for the period from 1st ulto. to 9th inst was submitted, from which it appeared the Brigade had been called out on 6th ulto to a fire at Beach Place, on 20th ulto. to a fire at 4 Shore Street, and on 4th inst. to a fire at 18 Cardwell Road. The report also stated that, when the Brigade had tested the Fire Plugs in Larkfield Road, Bayview Road, and Manor Crescent District on 3rd ulto., and the Fire Plugs in Cardwell Road and Cove Road District on l7th ulto., all the Plugs had been found in working order, that when the Hose had been tested at the Fire Station on 25th ulto. and 9th inst., 800 feet had been found defective and 100 feet in need of repair. and that there had been a Drill and the Annual Clean Up at the Station on 29th and 30th ulto.

In answer to an enquiry as to the fire on 4th inst., the Hon. Firemaster reported that, when a chimney in the house had recently been swept, the soot had not been removed from the top of the built-in grate and had gone alight when the fire had been put on.

Some enquiries were also made as to the manner in which the Brigade were called out to a fire, and the Firemaster stated that, if the fire was thought to be a serious one, the Police gave a general alarm to all the members of the Brigade by means of the Alarm Bells. but that, if it was thought the fire was not likely to be serious, the Police rang him up and he decided whether the Brigade or only one or two members of the Brigade should be called out. Some of the Committee were of opinion the present method might involve delay, and, after some discussion, Councillor Miller moved that the whole arrangements regarding the calling and attendance of the Brigade, including the arrangements when the services of the Firemaster are not available, be remitted to the Convener and Sub-Convener to look into report. This was seconded by Judge Mathie, and agreed to.

Firemaster's Annual Report

The Firemaster's Annual Report for the year ending December, 1933. was submitted, from which it appeared the Brigade had during the year been called out fifteen times to outbreaks of fires. which was seven times less than last year, and that all the fires had been of a trifling nature, with the exception of the fire at the Kippering Store. In answer to an enquiry by Bailie Rees-Pedlar, the Clerk said the Council had no power to recover from Insurance Companies or others any part of the cost of the attendance of the Brigade at fires in the Burgh. The Firemaster then left the meeting.

Fire Brigade

The report dated 11th inst., by the Sub-Committee appointed on 16th ulto. having been submitted, on the motion of Councillor Smith, seconded by Bailie Rees-Pedlar it was agreed, on the ground of urgency, to take same up forthwith, on the understanding that consideration of any of the recommendations therein might ultimately be deferred. Bailie Wood having left the meeting, it was, after discussion, unanimously resolved to approve of the recommendations Nos. 1, 2, 3, and 4 in the report, subject to copies of the Fire Brigade Rules in force in other Burghs being obtained before the new booklet is prepared. It was also resolved to approve of recommendations (a) and (b) in the report, and of the recommendation that Mr Ritchie be presented with a long service medal at the termination of his services with the Brigade. It was also resolved to ask the Hon. Firemaster to report as to the sufficiency of the water supply in all parts of the Burgh. independent of the sea, for fire extinguishing purposes.

It was further, on the motion of Councillor Smith, seconded by Judge Mathie, resolved to consider, at the next meeting of the Council in Committee the whole matter of the Brigade, including the recommendation of the Sub-Committee that the Council should engage a tradesman, who has had professional training and active experience as a full time Fireman, place him in charge of the Brigade, and make him responsible for the training and practice of the members. and their suggestion that, during the periods when the individual so appointed was not on Fire Brigade work, he might be usefully employed by the Council as a Tradesman. Bailie Rees-Pedlar asked that his dissent be entered, as he was of opinion the Committee should come to a decision in the matter without delay.

The Clerk was instructed to ask Mr Ritchie to continue to act as a member of the Brigade for another month or two, and, on the motion of Bailie Rees-Pedlar, seconded by Councillor Miller, Mr Duthie was authorised to order other 250 feet of Rob Roy Hose, and to return to the makers the 100 foot length of hose (stamped 1925) which it was thought could be repaired.

Nine o'clock having arrived, the meeting stood adjourned under the time limit in the Council's Standing Orders.

Page 348B

Fire Station

GOUROCK            December, 1933

To the Provost, Magistrates, and Councillors of the Burgh of Gourock

Lady and Gentlemen,

                                I beg to submit my Annual Report for year ending December 1933. During the year the Brigade was called out 15 times to outbreaks of fire, which is seven less than last year, nine of these were attended by the Fire Brigade, and the rest were attended by two or three members of the Brigade. These consisted of :-

                Chimneys on fire                                  10

                Sparks from other buildings                 2

                Back Smoke                                             1

                Accumulation of soot                           1

                Timber under hearths                            1

                                                                                15

All the fires were of a trifling nature except the one at the Kippering Store where the damage will amount to £1,200.

There were no fires during the months of May, July, August and September.

All the Fire Plugs in the Burgh were tested.

Since the new water main was laid from Reservoir Road to the filters at Larkfield the pressure has been increased by about 10lbs. Four new Fire Plugs have been installed , two in Burnside Road, and two in Drumshantie Road.

I have inspected the Picture House periodically and found everything in order.

There has been no accidents to any Member of the Brigade during the year.

All the Fire Hose has been tested and any that was too bad is to be replaced with new ones.

Opportunity is taken of acknowledging the assistance given by the Inspector of Police and his Staff.

                                                                                I am,

                                                                                Your obedient, Servant

                                                                                                John Christie

                                                                                Firemaster

Page 348C

Report by Sub Committee appointed on

16th November, 1933 to consider Fire Hose etc.

Your Committee met at the Fire Station on Saturday, 25th November, 1933, when there were present Provost Mrs Young, Bailie Rees-Pedlar, Councillors Macleod and Stevens, Mr Duthie, and the Members of the Fire Brigade.

One half of the hose equipment was tested on the hydrant at the ordinary pressure of 90-95 lbs. and three lengths of 100 feet and four lengths of 50 feet hose were found unsatisfactory. The Firemaster was instructed these lengths were on no account to be placed again on the Engine. The lengths which had passed the first test were thereafter tested at a pressure of 120lbs. and were all found satisfactory.

Your Committee instructed Mr Duthie to order forthwith six one hundred feet lengths of best quality Rob Roy Hose with a stated pressure test and with the issue year (1934) stamped on each length. They also instructed Mr Duthie to send the hose couplings to the makers so that they could be attached to the new hose.

Your Committee were informed it had not been the practice in the past to test the hose and the date of the last testing could not be given to them. They decided to test the remainder of the hose on an early date, and to recommend :-

1.             That in future one half of the hose be tested in May and the other half in November of each year and the results of such tests reported to the June and December meetings of the Committee.

2.             That precautions be taken (say by means of a distinguishing mark) to keep the hose tested in May apart from the hose tested in November.

3.             That all the fire plugs be examined at least once a year - such examination to be made during the day time by two of the full time employees of the Council, and

4.             That a list of the fire plugs and of the position of each be supplied to each member of the Brigade in a convenient booklet form, and that such list be kept up to date. That the booklet contain the rules and regulations of the Brigade and information regarding the duties of the Members.

Your Committee were informed all the fire hydrants were not capable of being connected to the Fire Engine and that some of them have to be coupled up in twos. They were also informed the pressure at the hydrants varies from 60 to 120 lbs, and that it has been the practice to keep the best of the hose in the Fire Station (not on the Engine) and only to use such hose as a final resource.

They further recommended :-

(a)           That a portable collapsible tank be procured for use with the hydrants, when the pump is in action, and

(b)           That certain hose (the very best) be definitely assigned as primarily for use with the pump and that this hose be not used with the ordinary hydrants, until all the rest of the hose has been brought into use.

On 7th December your Committee had a further meeting at which Bailie Rees-Pedlar, Councillors Macleod and Stevens, Mr Duthie, and the Clerk were present. It was then resolved to test the second portion of the hose on Saturday first, and to recommend that the Council engage a tradesman (preferably a joiner) who has had professional training and active experience as full time fireman, and that he be placed in charge of the Fire Brigade and be responsible for the training and practice of the Members. They are of the opinion that during the periods when the individual so appointed is not on Fire Brigade work he could be usefully employed by the Town Council as a Tradesman. In view of this your Committee do not make any recommendation in regard to the vacancy in the Brigade caused by the resignation of Mr. Ritchie except to suggest that he be asked to continue to act as a member of the Brigade until the Council have decided the matter of a new appointment as outlined above. Your Committee also recommended that when Mr. Ritchie's retiral takes effect he be presented with the usual long service medal.

Your Committee again met at the Fire Station on 9th. December when there were present Bailie Rees-Pedlar, Councillors Macleod and Stevens, Mr Duthie, and the Members of the Fire Brigade. The remainder of the hose equipment was tested on the Engine at a pressure of 120lbs. and two lengths of 100 feet and three lengths of 50 feet hose were found unsatisfactory. In addition a length of 100 feet (stamped 1925) was instructed to be sent back to the Makers for further information regarding it's repair.

                                                                                J. S. Macleod

                                                                                Convener

11th. December, 1933

Page 355               21/12/1933

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

The Clerk submitted letter dated 13th. inst., from Mr. Ritchie, agreeing to continue to act on the Fire Brigade for another month or two, and reported two additional applications for the vacancy in the Brigade.

He also submitted letter dated 19th. inst., from the Town Clerk of Kirkcaldy, where a professional Firemaster had recently been appointed, and reported as to the Salaries of the Greenock Fire Brigade, and the agreement between the Corporation of Greenock and the Town Council of Port Glasgow. Judge Mathie moved that information be obtained from Greenock as to whether they would make their Brigade available for Gourock fires, if satisfactory terms were arranged. This was seconded by Councillor Henderson, and agreed to. It was agreed the Convener and Sub-Convener of the Fire Brigade Committee and the Clerk be appointed to meet the Greenock Representatives and report. Bailie Rees-Pedlar entered his protest against the delay.

Page 364               28/12/1933

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

Submitted report by the Convener and Sub-Convener of the Fire Brigade Committee in regard to their meeting today with Representatives of the Greenock Corporation. Judge Mathie moved that the report be accepted, and that it be remitted to the Sub-Committee to continue their negotiations with Greenock, and report. This was seconded by Councillor Miller. Bailie Rees-Pedlar moved as an amendment that no further action be taken by the Sub-Committee and that the recommendations in the Sub-Committee's report of 11th. inst., in regard to the remodelling of the Fire Brigade be proceeded with. This was seconded by Bailie Wood. On a vote being taken, Bailies Rees-Pedlar and Wood voted for the amendment, and the other six members of the Council present voted for the motion, which was declared carried.

Councillor Macleod reported the system presently in operation for calling the Brigade. It was unanimously a copy of this report and of the existing Agreement between Greenock and Port Glasgow in regard to fire services be given to each of the Councillors.

Page 367A

Report by Committee appointed on 21st December 1933 to meet

Representatives of the Corporation of Greenock re Fire Brigade.

Your Committee met Provost Bell, the Convener and Vice-Convener of the Fire Brigade Committee, the Depute Town Clerk, the Chamberlain and the Firemaster of Greenock on 28th December 1933, and have to report that the Greenock Representatives are prepared to recommend the Corporation of Greenock to favourably entertain, if made, a proposal that the services of the Greenock Fire Brigade should be provided to extinguish fires in Gourock, and to recommend that a Committee should be appointed by each of the Town Councils to adjust the details.

It was mentioned the Greenock Corporation might take over at mutual valuation the Gourock Fire Engine, and such of the Gourock fire hose and equipment as could be used by them, and the Greenock Firemaster indicated his Brigade could, within seven minutes of receiving an alarm, be in attendance at any fire in Gourock.

It was also mentioned that, if an agreement satisfactory to both Town Councils was come to, it might include an arrangement for the attendance of the Greenock Brigade at Castle Leven.

                                                                                J S Macleod

                                                                                Convener.

28th December, 1933

1934

Page 5                    9/1/1934

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Firemaster's Report

The Firemaster's report for the period 10th to 31st ulto., was submitted from which it appeared the Brigade had been called out on 17th ulto. to a fire at 1 Castle Mansions, and on 19th ulto. to a fire at 7 Hopeton Street. The Firemaster was asked in his future reports to state the time when the Brigade arrived at the fire, in addition to the time of the call. The Firemaster then left the meeting.

Fire Brigade

The Convener reported the Sub-Convener, the Clerk, and he were meeting the Greenock Corporation 's Representatives tomorrow. After some discussion, Bailie Rees-Pedlar moved that the Clerk should enquire and report whether there is any chance of an agreement being made for the attendance of the County Brigade at Gourock fires, before any agreement is made with Greenock. This was seconded by Councillor Miller, and agreed to.

Page 18D

Report by Gourock Fire Brigade Committee

appointed on 21st Decr. 1933            

Your Sub-Committee met the Provost of Greenock, the Convener of the Greenock Fire Brigade Committee, and the Greenock Town Clerk, Chamberlain, and Firemaster on 10th January, 1934.

The Provost said he was sure his Corporation would be ready and willing to come to an arrangement with Gourock for the attendance of the Greenock Fire Brigade at Gourock Fires on much the same lines as they had done with the Burgh of Port Glasgow, and suggested £350 might be a fair sum for Gourock to pay Greenock annually for such services. The Greenock Chamberlain said he had gone over the Gourock Fire Brigade accounts for the last six years, and had found that the average annual cost of the Gourock Brigade was £363. The Provost also intimated that, if an agreement was made with Gourock, it would involve an increase in the Greenock Fire Brigade Staff, and mentioned his Corporation had already an application for an increase, and for better conditions of the Brigade.

Your Committee gave the Greenock Representatives a note of the number of calls on the Gourock Fire Brigade during each of the last ten years, and asked the Greenock Representatives to consider whether, in view of the figures in that note, and of the small amount of damage done by Gourock fires during the period, they could not see their way to materially reduce the suggested annual payment. The Provost said this request would be considered by his Sub-Committee but that if they suggested any reduction, the new figure would be final, so far as his Sub-Committee was concerned. Your Sub-Committee asked the Town Chamberlain to check the figure given by the Greenock Chamberlain and have been told it is practically correct.

The Town Clerk of Greenock has now intimated his Sub-Committee are prepared to recommend the Corporation to afford the services of their Fire Brigade to the Gourock Town Council for an annual payment of £300 on similar terms to those contained in their agreement with Port Glasgow, subject to adjustment of minor details.

The Greenock Representatives said the matter had not yet been before their Fire Brigade Committee or the Greenock Corporation, and asked that what they had said should meantime be treated as private and confidential.

                                                                                J.S.Macleod

                                                                                Convener

GOUROCK, 17th January, 1934.

Page 33                 6/2/1934

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Firemaster's Report

The Firemaster's report for the month ended January was submitted, from which it appeared the Brigade had been called out on 24th ulto. to a fire at 49 Ashton Road, and on 30th ulto. to a fire at 100 Shore Street.

The Clerk submitted letter dated 5th inst. from Mr. J Gorman, 98 Shore Street, expressing appreciation of the prompt arrival of the Brigade at the last mentioned fire, and of the manner in which such fire had been dealt with. On the motion of Bailie Rees-Pedlar, seconded by Councillor Stevens, the Committee agreed to record their appreciation of the services of the Brigade on the occasion.

The Firemaster was asked to report the number of fires which had taken place in Local Fish Restaurants during recent years, and the Clerk was asked to report the Council's powers in regard to the fitting up of such Restaurants. The Firemaster then left the meeting.

Fire Brigade

Submitted letters dated 30th ulto and 2nd inst., from the Clerk, West Renfrewshire Fire Brigade Committee. On the motion of Councillor Stevens, seconded by Bailie Rees-Pedlar it was unanimously resolved to appoint a Sub-Committee to meet the Sub-Committee appointed by the West Renfrewshire Committee. It was thereafter agreed Bailie Rees-Pedlar, Judge Mathie, and Councillor Macleod (Convener) and Councillor Stevens should form the Council's Sub-Committee. It was also agreed to meantime defer consideration of the Sub-Committee's report on 17th ulto.

Page 57                 22/2/1934

Council in Committee

Fire Brigade

Councillor Macleod reported what had transpired at the meeting on 20th inst. with Representatives of the West Renfrewshire Fire Brigade Committee, and the Clerk stated he had sent on the information which such Representatives desired.

Castle Levan

It was mentioned the West Renfrewshire Fire Brigade Representatives were of opinion it would be better to draw from the nearest hydrant in Cloch Road any water that might be required for a fire at Castle Levan, and to charge for the water used.

Page 64                 6/3/1934

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Fire Engine

Ashburn

The Hon. Firemaster reported it was not possible, in present circumstances, to take the Fire Engine down to the foreshore near Ashburn. In answer to an enquiry, he said he was of the opinion the pressure of water in the main at Ashburn was ample for fire extinguishing purposes.

Mr. Duthie also reported that, if the water pressure was reduced to, say, 60 lb., it would not be sufficient to throw the water to the roofs of houses in Ashburn Gate or Ashburn Gardens, and that, with a reducing valve, it would, in the event of a large fire, be necessary to open such valve to get a sufficient supply of water for fire fighting purposes.

Castle Levan

Mr. Duthie reported the distance from the nearest hydrant to Castle Levan was, say, 600yds. He was asked to report to next meeting what pressure of water was likely to be obtained at the end of, say, 1,800 feet of hose.

Page 94                 10/4/1934

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Fish Restaurants

The Firemaster reported there had been three fires in Fish Restaurants in the Burgh during the last seven years, namely, one in 1927, one in 1929, and one in January last, and the Clerk reported the provisions contained in the Model Bye-laws for regulating Building, etc., in Burghs, so far as affecting Restaurants, etc. After discussion, Bailie Rees-Pedlar moved that the Convener and the Sub-Convener inspect all the Restaurants in the Burgh, and report. This was unanimously agreed to.

Castle Levan

Mr. Duthie having reported the pressure of water which he thought was likely to be got at the end of 1,800 feet of hose, it was agreed to continue the matter to next meeting, to enable some additional information to be obtained. The Firemaster then left the meeting.

Fire Engine

Fire Extinguishers

Submitted letter dated 9th inst., from the Pyrene Co., Ltd., in regard to the Fire Extinguishers on the Council's motor vehicles, and stating the only Extinguisher requiring attention was the one on the Fire Engine. Councillor Henderson moved the acceptance of the Company's offer to replace last mentioned Extinguisher. This was seconded by Councillor Smith, and unanimously agreed to.

Page 124               3/5/1934

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Castle Levan

The Hon. Firemaster having reported further information obtained by him as to the pressure of water at the end of 1,800 feet of hose, it was, after considerable discussion, unanimously resolved Mr. Currie be advised that, until a suitable access road to the Shore was provided, it would not be possible for the Council to give an efficient Fire Brigade service to his house, in the event of an outbreak of fire.

Page 188               28/6/1934

Council in Committee

Fire Services

Castle Levan

The Clerk having reported the notice to be given to Mr. Currie if the Council desired to bring the Agreement with him to an end, Judge Rees-Pedlar moved that, as there was now no proper access to the shore at Castle Levan, the Clerk advise Mr. Currie that his Agreement would end on 30th. September. This was unanimously agreed to.

Page 200               10/7/1934

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Castle Levan

The Clerk reported call from Mr. Currie in regard to the new road which had been made to the Shore opposite his house. He said the Convener of the Works Committee, the Burgh Surveyor, and he had visited the ground, and were of opinion the entrance to the new road was not large enough for the Fire Engine. It was, however, understood such entrance might be widened. It was suggested the best way to secure an adequate supply of sea water might be for Mr. Currie to lay a small pipe alongside the sewer, and erect a motor to pump water from the sea into a tank near his house. Councillor Smith moved a Sub-Committee be appointed to see Mr. Currie, and report, and this was unanimously agreed to. On the motion of Councillor Miller, it was then unanimously resolved the Sub-Committee consist of Councillors Henderson and Stevens.

Page 231               11/9/1934

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Castle Levan

Submitted report by the Sub-Committee appointed on 10th. July of their meeting with Mr. Currie on 21st. ulto. Councillor Henderson moved the adoption of this report. This was seconded by Councillor Smith, and unanimously agreed to.

Fire Brigade

Submitted letter dated 10th. inst., from the Clerk of the West Renfrewshire Fire Brigade Committee, stating the terms on which the services of the Darnley Fire Brigade might be available for Gourock Fires. After discussion, it was, on the motion of the Provost, remitted to the Hon. Firemaster to prepare and submit to next meeting a tabulated statement showing the number of fires in the Burgh during the last three years, and the number of hours the Brigade or members thereof had been on duty at each fire.

Page 233A

Firemaster's Report for the Months of July and August 1934

July 18    Fire at Mr. Freeman's house, Manor Crescent. Brigade called at 11-40 a.m. and arrived five minutes later. On arrival it was found that an easy chair, some rugs and a portion of a carpet were burned. The cause of the fire was as follows, Mrs. Freeman had been using an electric radiator the previous evening, and instead of switching it off, she switched off the current at the meter. The radiator was then pushed against the chair, and when Mrs. Freeman switched on the current at the meter to do some ironing, the radiator set fire to the chair. The damage is estimated at £25. Brigade charge 18/-.

There are no fires to report for the month of August.

                                                                                                John Christie

                                                                                                Firemaster.

Page 233B

Report by the Fire Brigade Sub-Committee appointed on 10th July, 1934. Your Sub-Committee met Mr. Currie and his Gardener at Castle Levan on 21st August, 1934. At that meeting it was agreed the entrance to the new road to the shore opposite. Castle Levan was not wide enough for the Gourock Fire Engine. Your Committee suggested to Mr. Currie the best way to secure an adequate supply of water to cope with a fire might be for him to lay a small pipe alongside the existing sewer, and erect a motor to pump water from the sea into a tank near his house. Mr. Currie thought this might entail a larger sum than he was prepared to spend, and that a supply of water might be got from Mr. Holmes' mill pond or otherwise. He promised to make enquiries as to this, and asked your Committee to ascertain and report the probable cost of the proposed pipe, motor, and tank. Your Committee recommended Mr. Duthie be instructed to obtain this information and report.

                                                                                                John Stevens

                                                                                                Convener.

Page 260               9/10/1934

Fire Brigade Etc., Committee

Fire Brigade

A statement (of which a copy had been previously sent to all the Members) showing the fires in the Burgh during the last three years, the number of Firemen present at each outbreak, the hours of attendance at each fire, and the total number of hours the Brigade were on duty during such period, was considered. After discussion, Bailie Rees-Pedlar moved that the Council continue to have a Fire Brigade under their own control, and that the negotiations with West Renfrewshire and Greenock be not pursued further. This was seconded by Councillor Miller, and unanimously agreed to. The Firemaster having left the meeting, Councillor Smith moved that the matter of the reorganisation, if any, of the Gourock Fire Brigade be remitted to the Sub-Committee appointed on 6th February last. This was seconded by Councillor Henderson, and unanimously agreed to.

Castle Levan

The Hon. Firemaster submitted letter dated 3rd inst., from Messrs. Drysdale & Co., Ltd., Glasgow, stating the cost of (1) a pump complete with flexible coupling for driving, and an underwater bedplate of cast iron extended to receive the driving motor, would be £133, exclusive of the cost of a house, and (2) a portable petrol engine driven fire pump, with a five inch bore cast iron pipe between low water level and the foreshore retaining wall, and with extra suction and delivery hose would be £349 5/-. Councillor Stevens moved this information be sent to Mr. Currie, and this was agreed to.

Page 261A

FIRE BRIGADE

1931 - 32

Fires                                      Firemen Present                 Hours                     Total Hours

19 Binnie Street                                      6                              1                                              6

120 Albert Road                                     6                              1                                              6

Boys Brigade Hall                                  6                              1                                              6

19 Royal Street                                       2                              1                                              2

17 Royal Street                                       1                              1                                              1

22 John Street                                         3                              2                                              6

93 Shore Street                                       3                              1                                              3

16 Steel Street                                         5                              1                                              5

Golfhill                                                     7                              3                                            19

Spence's Garage                                     2                              1                                              2