Blaze a trail to Museum of Fire's open weekend

THE Museum of Fire has announced its first open weekend of the year.

The museum, based at Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service's historic headquarters on Lauriston Place, is home to the service's collection of fire and rescue service-related artefacts dating as far back as 1426.

It is usually only open to visitors Monday to Friday, but will keep its doors open on Saturday, 1 May, and Sunday, 2 May.

Honorary curator of the museum and past assistant firemaster, Ian McMurtrie said: "The museum is a mine of fantastic historic fire memorabilia such as fire engines dating back as early as 1806 and items belonging to James Braidwood, the 'Father of Firefighting' and the founder of Edinburgh Fire Brigade, the first municipal brigade.

"Although the museum normally welcomes visitors during weekdays, the open weekend is a great opportunity for members of the public to drop in and learn about the vibrant history of this vital service."

As well as the museum's own collection of artefacts and vehicles, a number of other vintage fire engines are heading to the museum for the two days.

The museum will open between 10am and 4pm during the open weekend, and more information can be found at www.lbfire.org.