THE Firemen’s Dance was one of the highlights of Faringdon’s social calendar.

Reader Bill Law has found newspaper cuttings which suggest that the 1939 event was the best yet.

One report read: “Faringdon Fire Brigade have organised successful dances in the past, but Wednesday’s effort surpassed everything.

“Long before midnight, the Corn Exchange was well filled with dancers, and finally the doors had to be closed against everyone except ticket holders.”

The town’s firemen had not only sold tickets, but acted as door stewards and in other capacities on the night, wearing their uniforms.

Music was provided by the Oxford Blue Star Players, who featured at many Oxford dances, particularly at Carfax Assembly Rooms.

The newspaper said the band, which was making its first appearance in Faringdon, created a good impression.

“The general feeling was that the band is one of the best to visit the town for a long time.”

There were prizes for spot dances and novelty prizes. Charlie Smith, captain of the fire brigade, was the master of ceremonies.

Pictures were taken at the dance of the firemen in uniform, and after research at Oxford Central Library, Mr Law, who lives in Faringdon, has named most of them.

They were Sid Taylor, Gerald Drewitt, Archie Townsend, Herbie Page, Walter Busby, Wilf Mulford, Charlie Smith, Mr Gray and Freddie Rogers.