Woodlands Garden Centre near Sevenoaks is to be the new home of Kent Fire and Rescue Museum and will be having a grand opening of the attraction on August 30.

Kim Barr, executive director of the garden centre, explained to GTN Xtra how the museum found its way to Woodlands.

"A customer told me that the museum was losing its premises in Chatham and was concerned the artifacts would be left homeless," said Kim.

"They were desperately looking for somewhere suitable to house a new museum. My father was a fireman and also my son's godfather. So I have a great fondness for the Kent Fire Service.

"I suggested they could set up the new museum at our garden centre. So I am proud to announce that on the 30th August we have a grand opening of the new Kent Fire and Rescue Museum.

"There are some wonderful pieces on display including horse drawn pumps, helmets, uniforms, ladders, hoses, going back to the 1700s. It is run by volunteers who are highly knowledgeable and passionate about the fire service.

"As well as a vast array of exhibits, we have a real fire engine that children and adults are able to get into and climb on.

"On the launch day, we'll have ex-firemen dressed in period uniform and of course ‘fireman Sam’, as well as guest appearances from vintage fire engines kindly donated for the day."

"We are all terribly excited about our partnership, and are sure this will be a great asset to our business, bringing in new customers."