Lots of great photos on here: http://blog.nomadicmonkimages.com/uk/the-2011-geddington-squirt/ many thanks to Wayne Neal.

Two cuttings from the Evening Telegraph dated 1998 and 1999.

Click to enlarge.

Evening Telegraph Monday, December 28, 1998

Evening Telegraph, Saturday February 27, 1999

If you can name the people in these photos, or have any comments, please us the comments system below.

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.