Another beautiful winter’s day saw this year’s Boxing Day Squirt fought at the ford. This year again saw the Kettering Retainer Fire Brigade enlisting the help of Burton Latimer to win 4-1 against the brave men of the GVFB.
Most people see the firemen sing on the cross and then go to the ford and do battle, but what else happens prior to this?
The day starts early for the GVFB. Both teams meet at the fire station to be hosted by the President of the Mess Committee serving mince pies and mulled wine while we wait for the guest of honour, the Mayor or Kettering, to arrive. This also allows time for the Captain of Drill to discuss tactics and give a final pep talk to the firemen on the GFVB hoses.
Once the mayor arrives and has had a chance to sample the mince pies and mulled wine, the firemen from all brigades assemble for the march down to The Cross.
At The Cross the Commanding office presents the firemen for inspection by the Mayor.
Its then off to the grave of The Chief for a minute’s silence.
Back at the cross, the firemen sing a Christmas carol, the traditional GVFB song and the new GVFB song based on the tune “A Fairytale in New York”.
Everyone then moves to the ford for the Squirt to commence while firemen pass amongst the crowds to raise money for the Fire Benevolent Fund. This year saw more spectators than normal and raised over £600.
After the battle has concluded and everyone has got suitable wet, firemen dismantle their hoses and retire to The Star for liquid refreshments and the presentation of the trophy to the victors.
Tags: squirt