When emails come in I never know what will turn up... to say I was pleased with this contact is an understatement.
Over to Richard Thornley. "I came across these pictures recently when I was tidying up. I worked for the construction company that built Asda in Hyde. I took these photographs while the demolition of the old Fire Station and Health Clinic was going on. Many of the materials like slates, cast iron guttering and drainpipes and even some of the interior were sold off prior to the demolition. While we were carrying out the demolition of the Fire Station, we came across a stone plaque commemorating the opening of the station. I contacted Hyde Fire Station, and we carefully removed the plaque and transported it to the new Fire Station where they installed it in reception. I hope these picture are of some use to you."
Richard Thornley
All I can say is well done to all involved in saving this Plaque, this important bit of Hydes History could have been lost for ever if these workers had not had the sense to save it.
The old Health Clinic
What a fine looking building this was... it would have been the envy of many a local council to have such a building in it's town centre. The next few pictures are quite sad to see... can you believe those grand pillars and top couldn't be saved...
I asked Richard how come the stone work was demolished, and his answer was simple...
Richard said "They did try to sell the pillars & surrounding stonework, but couldn't find a buyer in time.
Unfortunately they were knocked down and then put through a stone crusher and used under the car park"
What a shame, such a sad sight.
What a shame, such a sad sight.
I'd like to say thank you to Richard for these great pictures and documenting the demise of these iconic Hyde buildings, and for having the hindsight to save the Fire Station Plaque and making sure it was safely removed to the Station on Railway Street.
