Greater Manchester fires which changed Britain forever - from Woolworths to the air disaster that left 55 dead
manchestereveningnews.co.ukSince 1801 to the present day 201 firefighters have died in the line of duty in our region, according to records held by the Fireground Museum in Rochdale.
Many others have risked their lives to rescue those in danger. Their bravery has not only preserved life but investigations in the aftermath of major incidents has led to changes in Britain for the protection of us all.
As fire engulfed Woolworths, William Jolley climbed a ladder to the second floor from where smoke was billowing. Several women were trapped behind iron bars.
Station Officer Jolley used a large axe to smash masonry surrounding the bars in a bid to remove them. When this failed he cut through them with a compressed air saw, then forced them upwards to get into the Piccadilly store.
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