VISITORS to a North-East museum discovered how 19th Century fire brigades tackled a blaze, compared to today's firefighters.

Old and new appliances were on display at Locomotion: The National Railway Museum, in Shildon, County Durham, when it hosted a fire engine rally.

An 1879 Shand Mason fire engine, exhibited by Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, was one of the main attractions.

When it was working, the 1.5 tonne vehicle was pulled by horses. The steam-fired pump, fuelled by a coal and wood burner, took eight to 12 minutes to get up to steam.

A suction hose would drain water from ponds or tanks to fight flames. Modern appliances carry about 800 litres of water on board.

Chris Callanan and Bill Davies tour vintage vehicle events across the country to demonstrate the steam-fired pump on behalf of the brigade's historical society.

Mr Callanan said: "People are always fascinated and love to see it working. It is a rare, priceless and impressive vehicle."

Serving crews from County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service also took part in the rally.

Youngsters enjoyed a look inside a modern-day appliance, with the lights and sirens proving a big hit, while firefighters shared safety advice with visitors.

The event was free but there was a collection in aid of the Fire Services National Benevolent Fund, which supports firefighters and their families with rehabilitation, therapy, recuperative facilities and finance in times of need.

Watch manager Paul Elliott, of Bishop Auckland fire station, said: "We'd like to thank those people who made donations to the benevolent fund.

"It gives firefighters peace of mind to know if something sad happens it will be there to help us and our families."