Fordham historian John Pryke provides us with a glimpse of the village's fascinating past. 

April 30, 1914 was a very special day for the Bishop family, or should I say families.

A ‘double, double wedding’ took place.

Brothers Henry (known as Joe) and Ernest Bishop, of Fordham, married two sisters, Kate and Mary whose surnames were also Bishop!

Ernest Bishop had a small shop in Mildenhall Road and Henry ‘Joe’ had a delivery round and used a horse and cart to sell his fruit and vegetables.

He later became landlord of The Chequers pub in the village before his daughter Rene and husband Bill Rampley took over, recording a tenure of almost 50 years for the family.

Henry ‘Joe’ was also captain of the Fordham Fire Brigade during the 1930s and unfortunately had to deal with a very controversial incident that raged for 15 years.

The Fordham Fire Brigade was formed in 1889. Fire Brigade Members erected the building that housed the engine, with all equipment being paid for by voluntary subscription.

Ely Standard: Fordham Fire Brigade in the 1930s.Fordham Fire Brigade in the 1930s. (Image: JOHN PRYKE)But in October 1938, Fordham Parish Council and the Fire Brigade received a letter from the Newmarket Rural District Council stating that under the 1938 Fire Brigade Act, they would assume control and take possession of all fire-fighting equipment.

Henry ‘Joe’ sent a letter to both organisations stating that the Fire Brigade building, engine and additional equipment had been raised by voluntary subscription. If it belonged to anyone, it belonged to the village.

Very little progress was made at first due to the intervention of World War Two

During this period the situation became a little more complex when a new fire engine was acquired.

It was far too large to be housed in the original building but local builder and brigade member, Harry Boon offered a barn in Mill Lane to house the vehicle and appliances.

With pressure building to modernise and centralise the service, an agreement was finally reached.

Some members were legally compensated for their financial contributions to the organisation and in December 1952, the old building was sold to a local builder for £75.

The engine was sold for £5 and other appliances raised £9 15shillings and sixpence.

After legal fees and brigade members expenses there was very little left for the authorities.

The whole affair was officially and legally settled on January 20, 1953 after well over 100 documents and the involvement of solicitors, the Charity Commission and even the Attorney General’s Office.

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