FORGOTTEN film reels of firefighters in the 50s and 60s have been future-proofed in a bid to preserve history.

Vintage footage of Middlesbrough fire crews in training was unearthed when Cleveland Fire Brigade moved from their former Hartlepool headquarters last year.

The fascinating films, captured by amateurs on cine cameras, highlight a variety of moments from the brigade’s rich history.

Filmed in black and white and colour, with some clips more than half a century old, the footage gives an insight into the working lives of firefighters across what was the Cleveland area.

A public display of firefighting on Middlesbrough’s Newport Road is documented as part of a 1950s civil defence exercise, while crews can also be seen in another clip undergoing rigorous training at the town’s old fire station in the 1960s.

There is also footage of a fire service sports day at Clairville Stadium, the industrial landscape of the River Tees and an impressive parade of vintage fire engines through the streets of Middlesbrough.

Archivists from the North East Film Archive have now digitised the film reels to allow Cleveland Fire Brigade to showcase their history.

Phil Lancaster the brigade’s director of community protection, said: “They were just in the corner of a store room and we are hugely indebted to the skilful work of the archives for bringing them back into use.

“They are now a hugely valuable treasure trove as well as a training tool to show current firefighters just how far we have progressed over the years.

“They are also a wonderful glimpse into how it was all done nearly half a century ago and a remarkable memory for all those involved.”

The collection has been donated to the archive and is now preserved in climate controlled vaults at Teesside University for future generations to enjoy.

Graham Relton, NEFA Archive Manager, said: “Preserving important regional film heritage like this is what we do as a charity.

“The films offer a wonderful window onto the former Middlesbrough and Teesside Fire Brigade, at work and at play, in the 1950’s and 1960’s and add to our growing collections.

“They can now be seen alongside films from the other emergency services in the North East, including Middlesbrough Police Force in the 1960’s.”

More films can be seen via links below:

Middlesbrough and Teesside Fire Brigade Inspection, Awards and Training 1961-1972 Reel 1

Middlesbrough Fire Brigade Inspection, Awards and Training 1961-1963 Reel 2

Middlesbrough Fire Brigade Vintage Appliances, Inspection, Awards and Training 1953-1959 Reel 3