Firefighters are celebrating the 50th anniversary of their fire station next week.

Maidstone Fire Station in Loose Road opened on September 13, 1958, after the fire brigade outgrew its old location in Market Buildings in the town centre.

The anniversary will be marked with an open day at the station with games and face painting for children, information on fire safety and displays from other emergency services and organisations. People can also sign up for free home fire safety checks. Firefighters will be washing cars on the forecourt in front of the station and Halfords will be running free bike safety checks.

The open day runs from 11am to 4pm on Saturday, September 13. Entry is free.

Maidstone Fire crews are also inviting retired firefighters to join them for a social evening the same day, starting at 7pm.

We would like to hear from retired firefighters who remember the opening in 1958 or anyone who has memories of the Loose Road station or of the old fire station in the town centre. Contact the newsroom on 01622 695666 or email messengernews@thekmgroup.co.uk