Competitors set for Boxing Day ritual in Northants village
It's one of the most unique water fights
Teams taking part in a tradition which takes place on Boxing Day in a Northamptonshire village are gearing up for this year's challenge.
Every year Firefighters do battle with the local Geddington Volunteer Fire Brigade, who both take up position on either side of the river.
The Geddington Squirt consists of a fairly unique water fight.
They then simply fire their water hoses to propel a suspended beer barrel over to their opponents.
Coloured flares are then set off to show who's won each heat - Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue, or the GVFB!
As for the volunteer force, the Brigade was formed in 1977 during the National fireman’s strike. It is now a registered charity with a membership of some 80 men.
Its aim is to support the local community in general but also specific groups, individuals and organisations.
Jim Harker a well known local dignitary immediately organised a team of volunteers to set things up, drawn from all sections of the village community, who were ready to turn out at any hour to help in any emergency which might arise.
These volunteers had no training or special expertise but they mustered between them a great deal of talent and they shared a willingness and determination to do what they could, should they be needed.
Their engine, “Queen Eleanor” after the village's most famous inhabitant was christened at Boughton House in September 1981 by Her Royal Highness Princess Margaret.
On the day, traditionally December 26th, there's also a parade from Eleanor Cross, some singing, and it all starts at just after 11am.