SINCE 1887 the Barrow town hall has stood as the centrepiece of the town’s pride and civic statues.

The Mail reported, in July 1987, on the town hall’s infamous fire and the contribution of Barrow’s first lady.

The Mail reported: Barrow’s first lady, Cllr Hazel Edwards, leapt into action as our freelance photographer to take these pictures showing the aftermath of the fire at the town hall.

She agreed to give us the photographs, providing we make a contribution to the Mayor’s charity fund.

The Mail, of course, is delighted to do so.

The fire occurred yesterday afternoon.

Cllr Edwards’ pictures show firefighters and town hall staff clearing up after the blaze which broke out in the storeroom.

As scorched papers lie smouldering, firefighters cleared away large salvage sheets which had been used to collect records and documents from the town hall in the room the fire had erupted.

“A barrage of mortars thundered a salute and shook the town and four miles of bunting, flags and streamers dressed the venerable building overall.

“It was a day of magical make believe, through the work of Welfare State International.”

The town hall survived the blaze, 10 years earlier had marked its 100th anniversary since its creation in 1887.

The Mail reported the 100th anniversary: “A barrage of mortars thundered a salute and shook the town and four miles of bunting, flags and streamers dressed the venerable building overall.

“It was a day of magical make believe, through the work of Welfare State International.

“Queen Victoria was there, dishing out the regal waves, with the hilarious Lord Mayor of Fortune kissing the hands of a thousand and one charming ladies.”

The VSEL Works Band continued to play outside the Civic Hall and more music was provided by the Centenary Choir. The Mayor and Mayoress for the Barrow Town Hall centenary celebrations were John Smith and his wife Lilian.