In this special episode of Beyond the Call, recorded at the Fireground Museum, host Area Manager Ben Levy explores 200 years of firefighting history in Greater Manchester — from the creation of England’s first municipal fire brigade in Manchester in 1826 to the modern-day Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service. Joined by retired firefighter and museum curator Bob Bonner and former fire control operator Lynne Bairsto, the episode looks back at the fire service through the decades, including memories of London Road Fire Station, the formation of Greater Manchester County Fire Service in 1974, major incidents such as the Woolworths fire and Strangeways prison riot, and the camaraderie and pride that have defined generations of firefighters and control staff.

The latest episode of Beyond the Call focuses on Neurodiversity Celebration Week, exploring neurodiversity in the fire service and what it can bring to the workplace.

Host Lydia Neary, Progression Coach at GMFRS, is joined by Station Manager Tony Henshall and Interventions lead Declan Jones, to share personal experiences and discuss what it means to build an inclusive service.

In this episode, host Kathryn Aylett, GMFRS Training Development Manager, is joined by colleagues Sue Mallinson-Smitham, Sarah Scoales, and Amy Croxton-Evans to celebrate International Women’s Day.

Together, they share their career journeys across both operational and non-operational roles within Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue Service, reflecting on leadership, development, and the opportunities available across the organisation.

They speak about the challenges they've overcome, who has inspired them, and why GMFRS is a great place for women to build meaningful careers.