Crews, cadets and volunteers from Holloway Fire Station recently showcased their sense of community spirit in an episode of BBC One’s The Repair Shop.
The episode, which aired on 12 June, featured Volunteer Cadet Instructor Barbara Botsford and Firefighter Stefan Mannion arrange for the restoration of a cherished painting, breathing new life to an artwork which holds deep significance for the station and its firefighters.
The painting, created by now-retired firefighter Colin Jones, depicts crews from Holloway Fire Station in action. This piece has been a proud fixture on the wall of the station’s mental well-being garden, a place where firefighters go to de-stress after challenging incidents. Over the years, exposure to the elements left the painting mouldy, weather-worn and in dire need of restoration.
The episode saw painting conservator Lucia Scalisi carry out a restoration she described as "miraculous”. This process included drying the painting in the sun to eradicate mould, removing debris with a museum vacuum, peeling off old varnish, patching tears and restoring the paint to its original vibrancy.
Lucia’s work has resulted in a refreshed, inspiring piece of artwork - reflecting the pride and dedication of the Holloway Fire Station crew.
Barbara Botsford expressed her heartfelt gratitude: "As a Fire Cadet Instructor and mother of a dedicated Leading Firefighter, I've witnessed first-hand the unwavering dedication and support of London Fire Brigade.
"The assistance they provide our cadets is invaluable, so to express our gratitude I arranged for the restoration of this unique painting at the station.
"This painting is the focal point of the wellness garden, and I wanted the cadets to help maintain this area as it is where firefighters go to decompress after a tough shift.
"The initiative symbolises our deep appreciation for all the support offered to our young people and volunteer instructors”.
Firefighter Stefan Mannion also shared his thoughts, saying during the programme: "We take so much pride in the garden and our mental well-being space.
"This is the centrepiece of our garden. It's a big statement of how proud we are of the station, really, because we all love it there”.
The restored painting will continue to serve as a testament to the inspiring spirit of the Holloway Fire Station, celebrating its rich history and the crews’ ongoing commitment to mental well-being.