AN old Redditch fire engine which served through the war and was later owned by founder of yokel band The Wurzels is still being put to good use in a Yorkshire town.

The 1939 Leyland Tiger was based at Redditch fire station until the 1950s when it was rescued from the scrapheap by Adge Cutler, the leader of The Wurzels, who were best known for chart hits Combine Harvester and I'm a Cider Drinker.

But now the engine has gained a new lease of life in Wakefield after it was bought and restored by town fireman Bob Healds.

He is now hiring it out at weddings and parades to raise money for the National Firefighters' Benevolent Fund and Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

When not out on official duty, the engine, which still bears the words Redditch Fire Brigade, will be kept at Wakefield fire station.

l Above: Wakefield firemen with the trusty old fire engine which served its time in Redditch.

Picture courtesy of Wakefield Express