Our history

It was during the dark days of the Second World War that Fire Brigades across the Country were to experience their “Baptism of Fire”. Under dangerous, harrowing circumstances the men and women of the Auxiliary and National Fire Service’s fought to save lives, businesses and homes, sadly resulting in many casualties amongst those brave crews, some of whom even making the ultimate sacrifice.

Our Association has its roots firmly planted within the former Bristol City Fire Brigade, who during the late 1940s decided to establish a Pensioners Association. This was at a time when other charitable organisations such as the Bristol Bereavement Fund, Fire Services National Benevolent Fund and Old Comrades Associations were coming together to provide much needed assistance to Fire Fighters and their families who had been effected by the trauma’s of war.

The ensuing years brought many changes to the service, but none more so than the amalgamation of local Fire Brigades in 1974, whereby with the introduction of the new County of Avon Fire Brigade, we were able to extend a warm welcome to retired colleagues from the adjoining County’s of South Gloucestershire, North Somerset and Bath City Fire Brigades.

The Avon Branch currently has around 480 Members subscribing annually to the Association, with a further 120 non paying Honorary Members who are Widows, Widowers or long term Partners of Former Members.

We exist primarily to promote and safeguard in every way, the interests and rights of pensioners of the Fire Service and their dependants, whilst at the same time provide an opportunity for social exchange between colleagues.

We are affiliated to the National Association of Retired Firefighters, with membership available to all former personal, regardless of their role within the Brigade, always striving to promote and safeguard the interests and rights of retired members of the Fire & Rescue Services.

We are predominantly for retired members, but also extend a hearty welcome to all serving and non serving members who wish get in touch with colleagues and friends within their local Fire Community