Isle of Wight Observer January 9 1864
This brigade has been entirely remodelled, according to a resolution of the Board of Commissioners, and went out for a grand field day on Monday last, under their new superintendent, Mr John Langdon. Some new blood has been infused into the company, which we hope will be for the public advantage. The town crier has been appointed conductor of the fire escape. In addition to the escape, a jumping sheet has been procured, to enale persons, in case of emergency, to jump from windows or elsewhere. A little practice will, it seems, probably get the men into a high state of efficiency – a most desirable consummation for a growing town like Ryde.