Thoughts of a Watercolour Artist

Thoughts of a 

Watercolour Artist 

by Brian D. Powell

Thoughts of a Watercolour Artist

Thoughts of a Watercolour Artist 

Thoughts of a 

Watercolour Artist 

Brian D. Powell



Dedicated to Shirley



copyright © Brian D. Powell 

Produced and published by 

GO! Publicity.me 

Northumberland 

+441665 577084 

Author portraits thanks to Ian Moyes of ivall.co.uk 

Art duplication thanks to Rachel McClumpha of rjm-photography.co.uk


Publishers note 

The following pages take us on a whistle-stop tour of the life of Brian D. Powell. 

Innovator, thinker, inventor and creative, here's a story of how our schoolboy (brought up by the 

River Ouse) became a prolific artist, while still finding the time 'in between' to help one or two 

others along the way, in quite a dramatic fashion. 

With a 30 year career in the Public Services, Brian, like most of us witnessed the good and the 

not so good of human kind. He witnessed some comedic situations and with a ready smile he 

made himself available on many occasion to help prevent or suppress some major threat to life. 

The inventive work of Brian D. Powell in the world of Fire Prevention, providing cutting edge 

solutions based on practical know-how was (and continues to be) an influence on peers today. 

Brian is a man who considers others first, he is not afraid of the consequences of his actions and 

by being accountable he has saved the livelihood of many. Brian has even managed to make 

some rich men even richer without asking or seeking any recognition for the innovation which he 

alone introduced to the modern world. 

Brian D. Powell took the time to seize the value of the 'light bulb moment' while others simply 

stood by. Amongst the following pages you will find a thinker, a colourful character who each of 

us should be recognising as an example for future generations.



The Unsung Hero 

I salute the devotee of his craft 

who diligently pursued perfection 

with no recognition but remained true 

to himself and trudged along but lost 

to the dynamics of politics and 

the bottom line 

He was not in his time and space of Fame 

I lift my glass to her, the Fool 

who trusted them with a better idea 

only to lose it anyway 

but remained true to herself 

She knew not how to play 

the devious Game 

To the saints unselfish 

who cared for humankind 

but were overshadowed by 

fanatics religious, emirs and kings 

Heaven was not theirs to Claim 

To the writer not read 

and the artist well dead 

and the musicians who longed to play their 

songs and share in their glory 

but not to Be 

So let us applaud them loudly 

they remained true to themselves 

Let them bask in the sunshine 

if for only a brief time 

or at least until the sun goes Down 

~ Ralph Sergi (2013)


Brian D. Powell was born in the city of 

York on the 4 th February 1932, it was the 

same road where his mother Emily was born 

and brought up by her own family some 

twenty six years earlier. 

His father, Fred was born and raised in Alne, 

some twelve miles north-west of York. 

In 1940, Fred, working as a fitter, laying 

railway plates was called up for the Army and 

joined the Pioneer Corps. 

In 1946 King George V renamed the Pioneer 

Corps., the Royal Pioneer Corp., in 

recognition of their war efforts. 

^ Bomb damage! York Railway Station 1942. 

~ 

During the 1930's the medieval garrison town 

of York was a city expecting war and in 1939 

it came with the invasion of Poland by 

Germany. 

During this tumultuous time 11 year old Brian 

was undertaking his customary two-mile walk 

to Scarcroft Road School. 

^ Dad on leave, York 1940. 

Father Fred, Brian & mother Emily. 

Poppleton Road Primary had already taken a 

direct hit from enemy fire and St Barnabas 

was used as a rest centre for a time. 

Brian spent three years at Scarcroft, during 

which time he worked for Kingsland Dairies 

1


Saturday and Sunday mornings delivering 

milk for 4½d per pint in return for 2/6d, plus 

his breakfast! 

As any youngster, Brian was in 'his element' 

when spending every minute of time with his 

Grandad who familiarised Brian with the 

Leeman Road ferry. 

His evenings were often spent with Grandad 

on or by the water 'sculling' back and forth the 

many different people. There were those who 

were caring for children and their belongings, 

bringing dogs and even transporting their 

bicycles! 

Most of the 'customers' were servicemen and 

women and of course the workers who 

travelled across the River Ouse from boat yard 

to Clifton. 

Sculling is a method still in use today and 

involves using just the one oar over the stern 

with both hands and arms making a figure-ofeight 

motion. 

The twisting of the oar causes the oar's blade 

to emulate the motion of a fish tail or a ship's 

propeller. 

The transport costs for the privilege of a 'scull' 

across the river in 1943?? Two pence per 

person, just the one penny per child and one 

for a bike, two for a pram and dogs went free! 

^ This is not Brian D. Powell! 

Depending on the number of paying 

customers, Brian was paid the going rate of 5/- 

per week. 

The Second World War halted work on any 

sort of development or slum clearance and 

house-building in the city, and a number of 

corporation projects were shelved and were 

not resumed at all after the war. 

York had lost some 9,500 homes during the 

enemy bombing, with many killed. For young 

Brian growing up with the (almost daily) 

threat of danger, life was anything but dull! 

2


On leaving school Brian enrolled in an 

apprenticeship of 7 years studying Electrical 

Engineering which meant he was making his 

way to college 3 nights per week on a bicycle. 

York was and is still a 'bicycle city' and Brian 

and the bicycle had a great friendship lasting 

some 9 years with some happy days touring 

and participating in a variety of events (not 

just cycling,) hosted by Ebor Cycling Club. 

Brian was encouraged to compete and soon 

became involved in time-trials, eventually 

reaching a credible standard. 

^ Brian soon became a competitive cyclist! 

In 1953, aged 21 Brian was called up and 

joined the Royal Signals with a further 

training duration of 20 weeks in learning 

OWL (morse code ... recognised as the forerunner 

of today's SMS!) 

Upon completion of training he and pals were 

then posted to Herford, near Hannover in 

Northern Germany, where he was attached to 

3


11th Armoured Signals Regiment. Able Troop, 1 Squadron, Hammersmith Barracks. 

During the early '50s, the Limmer War Cemetery (or Hannover War Cemetery) was well under 

construction. The main intention of the cemetery, designed by Commission Architect Philip 

Hepworth, was to be the place of rest for the thousands of Commonwealth soldiers who were 

killed during the war. 

Of course, there was also the British Military Hospital situated at Hannover, one of the largest 

ever built and only closed to be mobilized as 32nd Field Hospital to Saudi Arabia during the 

Gulf War in 1990. 

During his eighteen months of military service in Germany, Brian was able to keep himself 

reasonably fit by playing front row rugby and whilst he was constantly thinking of home, he 

enjoyed the kinship and camaraderie that came with him being part of the team. 

4


< Some of the lads of “A” Able Troop, 

1 Squadron, 11 th Armoured Div., 

Signals Regiment. Owl and drivers, 1953. 

Rover Group > 

Northern Germany, 1953. 

“Out and about.” \/ 

5


In January of 1955 Corporal Brian D. Powell was at Denbury Barracks, Newton Abbot, in 

Devon when he was demobbed (discharged from the Signals.) 

Soon after, Brian was back working for a local firm, Dodsworth & Sturdy of York. This was to 

prove just a short stay. Brian had returned home with the experience of military in Germany and 

this, coupled with new found friends and with a world of new experience, it meant Brian, like the 

rest of the country was looking optimistically to a future full of promise. 

^ Leeds Training Centre, April 1956. 

Brian was 23 years of age and on his way back to Yorkshire where he soon found himself 

working in his all too familiar, former trade with Humber Electrical Engineering. 

This was not to last for long … 

Brian was to meet a friend named Alan in the local public house and very soon Alan was 

discussing … with an enthusiastic Brian ... a possible career change. 

Shortly thereafter, Brian was joining the Fire Service! 

6


So it was that after 8 short months at Humber Electrical Brian left the company and joined the 

Fire Service as a trainee, being duly 'posted' to Leeds for the duration of his exams and Fire 

Service training. 

It was when Brian returned to York and Leeman Road shortly thereafter, that life was to take him 

on another, not unexpected path. 

Dancing was a regular pastime at the Grand Assembly Rooms, Blake Street, and here, in 1955 is 

where Brian met the 21yr-old Shirley Brigham. 

'May I have the pleasure of this dance?' 

Shirley was working at the Yorkshire Evening Press at the time and later (which must have been 

every young ladies delight,) with the dream company, Terry's Chocolates, York. 

^ Grand Assembly Rooms, York today. 

The dance at the Assembly Rooms went well and Brian plucked up the courage and asked 

Shirley is she would see him again? So it was they arranged to meet on the following Tuesday. 

The second meeting never happened. Much to Brian's dismay, Shirley never turned up! 

7


'Ok., it happens. We win some, we lose some.' 

Brian was philosophical although slightly disappointed. 

'Even worse!' he thought … 

'Shirley still owed me dutch for the last taxi-ride home!' 

Brian eventually calmed down and thought nothing more, wistfully accepting 'that's my lot!' 

That's my lot it was ... until some seven days later a hand written note came through the post 

from an apologetic Shirley asking whether there was any chance they could meet again? 

Needless to say, soon afterwards Brian and Shirley were to be seen frequenting the Tower Street 

Cinema, occasionally out together on the 'tandem' and generally spending happy days together. 

Then, in 1957 they were married, living together at Garnet Terrace for the next six years. 

^ Ariel 1000 Square 4 with sidecar ^ Shirley with Jane, Brian and David 1963 

1958 saw Brian pass his exams as a Leading Fireman, the same year that son David arrived. 

Daughter Jane completed the family two years later in 1960. 

It was around this time when Brian travelled to Carlisle for an interview for Sub Officer based at 

Whitehaven. Then in 1967 Brian was promoted to Station Officer, graduating the Fire Service 

Staff College in 1971. 

8


Brian fondly remembers family excursions during this time, in particular visits to the seaside 

when all four family members climbed aboard the Norton 500 ES2 and sidecar before later 

graduating to the beloved Ariel 1000 Square 4 … plus sidecar of course! 

^ Brian, Shirley, Marie and Joe Sewell, 

Carlisle Fire Service Annual Ball. 

Crown & Mitre, Carlisle, 1972. 

^ Shirley, David aboard Bike … 

with sidecar. 

Brian and Shirley, at home, 

Great Corby, Cumbria, 1980 > 

9


2. 

Industry & Invention 

10


“So why make that decision Powell?” 

“Well Sir, it seemed like a good idea at the time, 

especially as you were not present to advise me.” 

“Right then, carry on Powell.” 

11


1966 

From rescuing sheep to ... 

SAVING THE HONEYMOON! 

Young dog … 

^ Old Dog! 

Arthur Baldock 

Yewbarrow, Wastwater 

< On the way up! 

Brian was taught the nature of partnership and the valuable 

lessons that comes from working together, collaborating 

and sharing the experience, the knowledge. 

12


1967 

“POWELL! You're on ropes …” 

Crag-fast sheep rescued... 

200 foot up and tangled in gorse. 

“Powell lowered both the RSPCA Inspector, Ted Wood 

together with the stranded sheep to safety.” 

Senior RSPCA Inspector Arthur Baldock, ably 

accompanied by a policeman, a fireman, farmer and an 

assistant Scout Master(!) teamed-up to successfully 

rescue two hopelessly crag-fast sheep high up on 

Melbreak in Loweswater. 

The two animals had been missing for around two 

weeks before being spotted through glasses some way 

up the crags, one more than 200 feet above the other. 

'It was quite an exhausting job.' 

Using rock climbing techniques the team anchored 

Sub-Officer Brian Powell at 

base and made the rescue in a 

little over three and a half 

gruelling hours. 

The sheep on the higher ledge was so weak it could not stand, and with 

the other animal being the stronger, Inspector Baldock was afraid it would 

panic and topple over the narrow ledge and onto the rocks below. 

We're all relieved we saved them. 'It was quite an exhausting job.' 

13


1967 

Down from the mountain! 

Honeymooners saved! 

A Police constable and his bride spent a night of their 

honeymoon huddled together on an exposed ledge 

nearly 2000ft up a gale-lashed mountain. 

Icy winds, rain and hailstones swept across the 2ft ledge 

where they had become trapped! 

Lost overnight ... 

Eventually, the couple, married five days, edged their 

way down the mountain towards Wasdale to be found 

wandering, some 300 yards apart and 24 hrs after 

leaving their hotel. 

“We were shocked when we woke up and 

saw a 300ft drop below.” 

The Police constable was brought down the mountain on 

a stretcher and taken to hospital. His wife said they had 

simply become lost ... 

Police later criticised the couple, both 23, who had left 

no information of the intended route, leading to a 

50-man mountain rescue team to search for them. 

Cold, but cheerful, the brides first words were: 

“At last you got here, is 

John all right?” 

14


A message from John Falshaw... 

I first met Brian, in York, in 1958. Brian’s wife – Shirley and my wife – Margaret, were attending prenatal 

classes at Fulford Maternity Hospital and were drawn to each other. Our first babies (both boys) 

duly arrived in June, only three days apart. 

As time passed our friendship flourished and in the early ‘60s’ we were both thinking about promotion – 

Brian to become a Fire Officer and me the 'headship' of a small school. So in 1963, quite by chance Brian 

applied for a sub-officers job at Whitehaven with Cumbria Fire Service, and was successful. In the same 

year I was appointed as Headmaster of a two-teacher brand new school at Orton in Westmorland. 

We were now living much further apart than in York, but whereas Brian had a motor-bike and sidecar, 

we had no transport. Eventually we both got cars which meant we could visit and spend time with each 

other more often. 

We started fell walking together in the Lake District, around Wastwater and then Western Fells when we 

were at Hensingham and Haweswater and the Eastern Fells when they were at Orton. 

As Brian moved further up the ladder to become Station Officer 

he left Whitehaven for Dalston, then Penrith and finished at 

Carlisle buying a house in Great Corby, just outside the City. He 

was extremely enthusiastic about his job and very well qualified 

(often much better than his superiors). 

He enjoyed his work. Fighting fires, attending accidents on the 

M6, giving lectures, fire prevention and was always thinking of 

ways of making the job more efficient and cost effective. 

As our family grew older and fled the nest we spent even more 

time together because we would go on holidays to Scotland. They 

introduced us to the Highlands and the Isle of Skye. 

Brian is a prolific water colour painter and has also experimented 

in oils and in acrylics. He is completely self taught attending art 

“classes” to enjoy their company. Brian was never happier than 

sitting in an exhibition delivered by the “Three Brushketeers.” 

Brian has been more like a brother to me and whenever we meet 

we seem to take up from our previous meeting and always end up 

“putting the world to rights!” 

^ Darling Fell, Lake District 

~ John Falshaw 

15


Shirley photographed here at Margaret and John Falshaw's house,“Shallowford,” Orton. 

The occasion of Margaret's birthday, 

Summer's evening, June 1970. 

16


February 1967 

Only quick thinking saves lives! 

“Two men died after being overcome by 

fumes while a fireman was rendered 

unconscious during a major rescue operation 

having taken place at Marchon Products Ltd., 

Kells, Whitehaven. 

Fireman Alan Penrice of Cleator Moor, was 

the first member of the Whitehaven Fire 

Brigade on inspection duty and quickly 

entered the rescue area. 

'Gas is invisible, often it is without 

scent and it can kill quickly.' 

It was despite wearing his breathing 

apparatus, that Fireman Penrice was 

overcome by noxious fumes. 

Other fire units and ambulances were called 

and they worked quickly to rescue the men. 

Sub Officer Brian D. Powell had, by this time 

managed to move the unconscious Alan 

Penrice from the hazardous area where he 

performed CPR before arranging transport to 

hospital. 

Another man was slightly overcome during 

the rescue operation although recovered, one 

other of the team sadly died due to the effects 

of the toxic environment. ” 

“without the quick application of CPR by Sub 

Officer Brian Powell … I would not be here 

today!” - Alan Penrice. 

17


A message from Alan Penrice... 

When I joined Whitehaven Fire Station I had the good fortune to join the newly formed 'Blue Watch' 

under the leadership of Sub Officer B. D. Powell. 

From that first memorable handshake until now, over fifty years Brian has been my good friend and rates 

as one of the very few people I would trust with my life. 

He commanded respect from everyone he met, not only because he was the Sub Officer either. He had 

great man management skills. He was genuine and that was in short supply at the time. We got on well 

from the start, no wonder, we both were as regimental as 'button sticks.' 

To be part of 'Blue Watch' Brian had moved from York, bringing his wife Shirley and two children. We 

were quick to learn that our new Sub Officer was man enough to be boss and when off duty able to spend 

some social time with his crew. 

I wanted to do well in The Service and with the help of Brian, I passed my Leading Fireman exam just 

two years later. Life was good at that time, Brian had made 'Blue Watch' a great watch because of the 

trust he had built up between each other. 

A year passed until one fateful Saturday morning when we were called to Marchon Chemical Works. 

Two men had fallen into a mixing tank, being overcome by fumes and the only way to get to the men was 

through a manhole situated on the top of the tank. 

Leading Fireman Bill Robin was my other member of the BA team that day. Bill was quickly into the 

tank and by means of a rescue line, helped by other members of the crew removed the first man. 

Using the same manhole I found difficulty getting into the tank due to my size and the poor design of my 

Salves Set. The BA Set, complete with bag was carried on the front of the body and me being unaware the 

bag had been torn on entry, I moved down into the tank. 

Leaning over the second casualty and preparing to tie on the rescue line, I came then came too in the West 

Cumberland Hospital! 

If it wasn't for the quick application of CPR by Brian then having me removed at great speed to the 

hospital thus allowing the Doctor and his staff to perform life saving work, I would not be here today. 

A great deal happened after that incident. 'Blue Watch' lost it's identity and although we went in different 

directions, we kept in touch and stayed the best of friends. 

That's how it remains today. 

~ Alan Penrice 

18


FEBRUARY 1966 and a blackened and broken shell was all that remained of Cleator 

Moor Market Hall after a fire which gutted the building despite a 9hr struggle by 20 firemen. 

Destroyed in the hall, which had been converted to a plastics factory by Scandinavian Termotex 

Development Ltd. were about six tons of paper, a ton of plastics and several items of specialised 

machinery. No one was killed or injured with fire-fighters spending two days of follow-up, 

tackling the reigniting debris, including plastics caught up beneath the fallen masonry. 

19


< Fire Service Technical College 

Moreton In Marsh, 1968 

Fire Prevention Long Course 

Fire Service Staff College, 

V Dorking, 1971. Command Course 

Penrith Fire Station 1972 

Cumberland N. Sub Div. 

Retained Sub 

Officers Course V 

20


Every great invention or idea 

started within the mind... 

It began as a 

simple thought or an 

imagination that would 

eventually, become 

a reality. 

21


In 1986 Brian D. Powell completed a thirty-year career as a professional Fire Officer. 

During his time with 'the service' he was committed to not only 'just putting out fires' but to 

saving many lives and the livelihoods of scores more by delivering timely innovation. 

For forty years Brian Powell's ideas and safety initiatives have been well documented, some 

blatantly copied, destined to influence greater thinking both nationally and internationally. 

Within the following pages we offer an 

insight, just a hint into the inventive 

world of one of the UK's unsung firefighting 

heroes. 

Brian Powell commanded respect from 

both peers and mates alike by leading 

from the front and implementing change. 

22


The FIRE Journal - May 1976 

The Cumbria Tyre Blanket 

'buying valuable time, saving lives' 

Suitable for up to 80% of all HGV's … 

Monsanto Chemicals Ltd., accompanied by 

Brian D. Powell, the inventor of a valuable new 

safety aid carried out trials in the presence of 

guests from various fire authorities and the 

transport industry. 

The trials were successfully carried out on the 

use of a fibreglass jacket claiming that it would 

'buy valuable time' for the driver of the vehicle 

from initially discovering he had a tyre on fire 

until the fire brigade arrived, some 10 or 15 

minutes later. 

A lightweight fibreglass prototype was produced 

to the specification of Station Officer Brian 

Powell and 'on the day' specific tests were 

carried out when two twin rear wheels were 

ignited simultaneously. 

One twin tyre was fitted with the 'Cumbria Tyre Blanket,' the other tyre without. 

After 15 minutes the unprotected tyre was burnt away completely. The other, protected by 

the blanket was smouldering, although the fire was totally contained. 

23


The FIRE Journal - May 1976 

Swedish prototype all-purpose rescue unit 

'multi-purpose rescue role' 

Great interest has been generated for an all-purpose rescue unit for fire service use both on 

and off the road. 

In particular, Sweden's National Fire School in Stockholm has taken great interest and gone one 

step further by adopting Station Officer Powell's drawings for use by all of Sweden's brigades. 

The all-purpose vehicle is built on a Swedishmade 

military chassis, the Scania SBAT 111, 

developing 218kw (296 hp) at 2,200 rpm. 

It has six-wheel drive system and extremely 

good off-road characteristics even with a full 

load of 14 tons. 

The unit is able to negotiate water up to 80cm 

deep, climb a 60pc gradient and has free axles 

front and back of about 40 degrees. 

It will have a Hiab 765 AW lift-loader, rear 

mounted pto-operated winch, hydraulics pump, 

power, 400 gallon water tank. 

Also fitted is a hydraulically driven water 

pump and a vast range of electric tools/power 

but with hydraulic power for high-capacity use 

a n d a i r o p e r a t i o n d u r i n g w o r k i n 

hazardous/dangerous atmospheres. 

24


Public Protection Committee … 1976 

DENNIS 

Fire Engine presentation for the future 

To people of a certain age, the name 'DENNIS' is synonumous wih shiny red fire engines, and 

has been so for almost the whole of the 20 th century. Yet this iconic vehicle has quietly all but 

disappeared from Britain's streets. 

Dennis have not produced a fire engine for several years due to the constant calls for industry 

diversification, although it was only just recently that John Dennis, the grandson of one of the 

founders of the company 'DENNIS' took a vested interest in the business. 

Thus the iconic style – the 'body-building' element continues to be manufactured in Guildford. 

~ 

During the Autumn of 1976 Brian Powell was among a select few 'industry innovators' invited 

by 'DENNIS' to present their own ideas regarding the future of firefighting. 

A vision of firefighting 

DENNIS 

'Fire Appliance of the Future' 

1976 

25


Introducing Pyrotec ... 

The Fire Response Vehicle 

Here is the most capable fire response vehicle to 

date. Designed solely for the problems of the 

environmental twenty-first century living. 

This swift, safe, compact fire vehicle is 

designed to be first on the scene and capable 

to take command. 

Its three module assembly unit construction 

provides a multiple use, providing ease of 

maintenance, air lift facilities, and above all 

economically viable. 

Emergency Response 

The electronic computerised system that this 

vehicle is equipped with provides immediate 

communication with the fire services central 

memory bank. 

This facility provides the electronic cab 

reader to plot the route to any incident and 

also provide other relevant operational 

information, independent of the Fire Service 

radio link. 

THE MODULES 

Cab Control Module 

Instant link connection with the equipment 

pool. This houses all the vehicle controls 

and the electronic console. The cab is 

formed from totally transparent reinforced 

(carbon fibre) Thermo-plastic, glass space 

ship toughened. Adequate safety seats are 

provided, upholstered in durable dacron, for 

driver and crew. 

Equipment Pod Module 

The pod is constructed of tubular steel and 

clad with reinforced (Carbon fibre) Thermoplastic. 

The compartmentation within the 

pod is constructed of similar material. 

26


Clamp and slide facilities are provided for easy 

removal of fitments, and specially designed for 

helicopter movement, be it for land or sea 

situations. All the fire equipment is suitably 

stowed within the pod for easy operational 

requirement, be it low level or high rise 

situations. The vehicle is suited to varying 

types of equipment pods. This makes the unit 

more versatile. 

Power Unit Modules 

There is choice to what particular type of 

motivation module one would require, which 

can be selected to suit any specific risk or task. 

Type E/E : Ethylene/Electric: 

This provides a converter, mechanical to 

electrical. Thus providing energy to each 

drive wheel electric motor electric pump, 

electric converter A/C to D/C. 

Type E/H : Ethylene/Hydraulic: 

This provides energy from an Ethylene 

compression ignition engine to a hydraulic 

fluid motor, drive factors to each wheel fluid 

motor (four wheel drive) fire pump, electrical 

generator. 

Electronic Cab Console 

This is situated in the full view of the driver 

and crew. The instrumentation is fingertip 

control. The transistorised insert modules are 

designed to satisfy the following functions. 

a. Route planner cab reader 

b. Service radio 

c. Operational radio 

d. Fire pump control 

e. Electrical generator control 

f. Hydraulic boom, fire search, rescue. 

g. Elevated lighting. 

TV Screen etc 

All safety circuits systems are connected 

giving indication and audible warnings for 

equipment that is required to have fail safe 

commitments. 

a. Brakes 

b. Fluid motors 

c. Seat belts 

d. Fire pumps 

e. Hydraulic boom 


27


Powgas System 

This medium is the result of extensive research by fire engineering chemists. 

The formula is still on the Classified list of chemicals, but its basic origin is from the halogen 

group. 

The discharge is somewhat the same as the conventional dry powder system. 

The advantage of “POWGAS” is that the powder rapidly converts into large volumes of inert gas 

at 97.5° Celsius. 

Storage vessel is located in the equipment pod. 

The vessel being pressurised and refrigerated to prevent the powder from gassing. 

The vessel has a capacity of 100Kg and this is connected to the multi-purpose hose reel. 

Elevator Fire Pack Trolley 

This mobile portable unit has stowage facilities within the equipment pod. It can be wheeled out 

of the pod on runners and folding ramp way. This allows a single firefighter to transport essential 

fire equipment along corridors, bridge ways, up and down elevators to the desired location where 

it is not possible for the PYROTEC to gain near access. 

This portable unit carries the following equipment: 

4 – 25m x 40mm flaccid hose for use on landing valves and pillar hydrants. 

Resuscitator 

First Aid Kit 

Self-rescue pack – lines and slings 

Various tools (break-in and cutting) 

Portable extinguisher and fire blanket 

Plug-in complex telephone 

Two-way fire ground radio copyright © Brian D. Powell 

28


Multi Channel Radio 

This transistorised circuit system provides a 

full range of operations: 

Fire Service comms with fire control 

Communication with complex controls 

Fire ground communication 

Pump and pressure control 

TV camera and zoom boom control 

Boom fire sensor control 

Close Circuit TV Facilities 

A two channel system 

Fire ground control and observation 

Fire service training inter-station 

connection via Fire Service Main Control 

Fire Fighting Media 

A full range of multi-purpose systems 

contained within the equipment pod module. 

1. Low pressure fire-fighting pump for 

pressurised mains installed within the 

complex. 

2. High Pressure pump for high pressure fog 

via hose reel from first aid tank or mains. 

3. A.F.F.F. Proportioning System: 

Valve control to proportioning system is 

located on the pump panel. A concentrate tank 

of 100 litres capacity connected to an in-line 

6% proportioner within the pod. 

29


Pyrotec Vehicle Specification Chassis 


Constructed in three unit modules: 

a. Forward Control, Cab Unit module 

b. Central Equipment Pod module 

c. Rear Power Source module 

The chassis is constructed of tungsten tubular space steel, each module interlocking, thus 

forming a complete vehicle unit. Steadfast sure locks provide total rigidity (space link up type) 

docking automatic. 

Engine for Fluid Pump Unit 

A Spaceman V4 cylinder, two stroke Ethylene compression ignition power unit 200 

bhp, 2800 rpm. An inline fuel injection pump is provided including an all speed mechanical 

regulator and a mechanical/electronic excess fuel device. 

The engine is a transverse unit driving through electronic controlled fluid motor pump supplying 

integrated hydrostatic transmission to each wheel fluid motor traction unit. 

Cooling 

Air cooled by thermostatically controlled turbo drive fan. 

Exhaust System 

Discharged vertically through the power unit module, with anti-pollutant filters. 

Transmission 

Integrated hydrostatic transmission, having fluid motors, four wheel drive, fully automatic 

electronic speed selector. 

Axles 

FRONT: Beam type with low friction bearings. Hydrostatic suspension arms on fluid floats. 

30


THE REAR: The Fully floating, Hydrostatic suspension arms. 

BRAKES: Electronic sensor within each fluid motor with electric hose. 

STEERING: Full re-circulatory positive control, hydraulic assisted. 

FUEL SYSTEM: Capacity 100 litres fuel tank with mechanical lift pump – anti-flash filter, 

electronic auto warning device. 

STANDARD ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT: 

24 volt, 60 amp alternator, four space head lamps 

in paired seal beam units. 

Quartz/Halogen side, stop, rear, normal, fog, twin 

reversing lamps, automatic reverse connection, 

hazard warning kit. 

Steering column control stalk road alerter, all 

vehicle lighting switches. 

Illuminated instrument panel speedometer, 

ammeter, fuel gauge, brake gauge and temperature 

gauge. 

Wheel Type: 4 – Wild cat space-walk balloon radial type. 

Battery Dual 70A hr. Solar Space compact Nic/Cadmium. 


Road Performance 32 Km in 7 secs 64 Km in 20 secs Maximum gradiant start 1 in 3. 

Hydraulic Prime Mover 

Hydraulic pump system via power take off from road transmission unit. Operated by electric 

push button control from the vehicle control cab console. 

The engagement is by means of an electrical clutch and the flow rate by means of the engine 

speed control. 

31


Control via Cab Console 

Operational control is provided on the cab console providing fingertip access for hydraulic fire 

pump, generator and engine automatic speed control. 

The Fire Pump 

A fluid motor prime mover mounted in the central equipment pod as an entegral part of the first 

aid tank and controlled from the vehicle cab electronic instrumentation. Pre-set valves are 

installed in the discharge piping with a return to suction circuit for the protection of the pump. 

The pump installed so as to be easily removable from the equipment pod for the purposes of 

maintenance. 

The pump is primed through the use of an electric driven priming unit. A simple control on the 

pump panel to start and stop the primer motor, and open, then close the valves between the main 

pump and primer. 

Drain valves are provided for any pipe line which are not drained through the main drain valve 

and may require drainage due to climatic conditions. 

Pipe Work 

A 80mm tank to pump supply pipe is provided with a manual, and a remote control operated 

electronic valve from the pump control panel. 

Two 60mm delivery valves provided for supply of 40mm, instant hose pipe line connections. 

The Multi-Purpose Hose Reel 

Located in the equipment pod having a 100 metre of high pressure hose (30 BAR) working 

pressure. It has electrical re-wind facilities. ose Hose ReelThe re-wind switch is located at the 

base of the reel housing. It has the following choices of use via the twin tube single hose. 

a. Fog b. LP Water c. Water pre-mix d. Powgas or Powder 

Hose Real Cross Section 

Single hose with dual channels for water and “Powgas” etc 


32


HP Hose 30 BAR W.P. Central Membrane 

Hydraulic Boom 

This is a detachable hydraulic/electrical unit which 

provides the following uses. 

* Fire Search Sensor, Search, Detect, Investigate, 

Attack. 

* TV Camera Unit. 

* Extinguishing Medium Projection Unit. 

* Flood lighting tower. 

* Rescue unit, two person cage, deck rescue. 

Electrical Power Unit 

A 3000 watt, 110 Volt DC electrical generator, 

engine mounted supplying lighting to tower power 

source for portable tools and hand held/motorised 

lamps. 

3 rd Place! 

DENNIS 

Fire Appliance of the future 

1976 

Awarded to 

B.D. Powell of Cumbria 

Pyrotec 

Fire Hose 

200m of 45mm hose in pre-packed carrying baskets. 

All branches - Selectamatic control 

Breathing Apparatus 

Six luna space, 

4hr sets, 

Chemical, Oxygen 

Weight per set 2.2Kg. 


33


The FIRE Journal – August 1977 

TANKER! Anti-spillage valve 

'spillage problem very much with us' 

A moving ball and a cup valve device, 

developed by Station Officer Powell is located 

in a cage-type construction secured 

immediately below the manhole cover of a 

tanker and mounted on running guide rails. 

The complete unit would be fixed into 

position with a burst-proof locking ring. 

“If one designs a device that could help to 

avoid spillages by stopping leakage through 

the manhole hatches, then hopefully, this is 

making some contribution to lessening the 

potential involvement and consequences of at 

least some of the road crashes involving 

tankers,” - Station Officer B.D. Powell. 

Station Officer Powell adds that the ball, 

similar in size to a normal football, would 

float into position at certain angles between 0- 

80 degrees, forcing the cup valve against the 

washer. The design of the cup valve would 

allow it to be filled with the liquid in the tank 

in such a way that the pressure of the liquid 

would help to maintain an adequate seal if the 

vehicle overturned completely. 

34


Evening News - September 1977 

How SAVING LIVES can deliver ... 

The innovator an opportunity! 

When an article for Brian's anti-spillage 

valve appeared in a printed edition of 'Fire 

Journal,' it was to be spotted by an eagleeyed 

BBC Tomorrow's world producer. 

So curious were the BBC that it lead to an 

appearance by Brian on national television, 

leading to some invaluable publicity. 

Following the 'Tomorrows World' program 

Brian was approached by a patenting agent 

with a view to possibly taking the anti-spill 

safety valve to the European market. 

35


The Fire Journal - February 1978 

FIRE DETECTION for 'sleeper cabs' 

considering the very real alternative 

“A fire detection system should be an 

integral part of every vehicle tractor 

unit having a sleeper cab.” 

… so believes Station Officer Brian Powell of 

Cumbria Fire Service. 

The system could be self-contained & 

connected to the vehicle's electrics in the form 

of an audible warning unit capable of detecting 

the heat or smoke. 

Such an installation would protect the driver in 

the event of a cab fire occurring while he slept. 

A logical extension of the system would be to 

provide heat detectors for other high-risk 

areas of the vehicle, the engine, wheel arches, 

underside of loads and inside container units. 

Considering the vehicle parking in denseoccupancy 

commercial vehicle parks and the 

number of persons sleeping within it ... it is 

nothing to find 60 sleepers, being just as many 

as would occupy a medium sized hotel! 

Station Officer Powell maintains that the actual 

cost of installing such a system must surely 

be negated when considering the potential 

and very real alternative … 

The losses of load and the vehicle, or life, 

or perhaps all three! 

36


The FIRE Journal – June 1978 

A Portable test device! 

'but, does it work?' 

An smoke detector test device, developed by 

Station Officer B. D. Powell, is now being 

used by Cumbria Fire Service. 

The extremely portable, light and easy to use 

device can reach smoke detector heads in 

difficult situations such as stair-ways, roofs 

apexes and ceiling areas. It works by 

discharging smoke into the detector chamber in 

a clean contained manner. 

When asked how he comes up with his lifesaving 

ideas, Brian Powell, a fireman for over 

25 years says he picks these up while working: 

“I think there must be a solution to this 

or that problem and then start on it at 

the drawing board.” 

The device is electrically operated with a choice 

of power supply, rechargeable or mains. 

Consisting of a control box which houses the 

power pack, switches, socket outlets and also a 

probe made up of interconnecting rods. 

The smoke test head is a coil electrical 

heater. The smoke housing is a container 

which fits over the smoke tester to maintain 

smoke density and provide containment. 

To test a droplet of oil is placed into the 

cone of the heater element. The smoke 

housing is placed over the heater unit and 

the probe applied to the detector head. 

Once in place, the electrical heater rapidly 

vaporises the oil droplet into smoke of a 

sufficient quantity to operate and test the 

smoke detector head. 

37


Evening News ... August 1979 

It's a safety revolution! 

A Carlisle County fire officer's invention could 

spark a safety revolution. 

Brian D. Powell's brainchild makes light work of 

decontamination with his inflatable clean-up 

chamber gaining the thumbs-up from industry 

leaders and fellow brigade colleagues as well! 

“Decontamination is the buzz word at the 

moment and local authorities in particular are 

looking for ways to deal with it. With the Powell 

Decontamination Station we believe we have 

come up with the answer.” 

This could be the start of a revolution in safety 

procedure! 

38


Stretcherbearer! 

Introducing the 'Powell A.P.I. Stretcher' 

39


A few words from John Wilson... 

I was born in Plumstead, (London) on February 4 th 1936, where my mother packed shells at 

Woolwich Arsenal. My father had died at a young age, just 26yrs old. 

At age 4 I found myself an orphan living in a hotel in Keswick, with 'Aunt' Mary Wilson. 

When I started school I met my future wife Brenda when just 4! I later attended Keswick Grammar 

School and achieved 6 'O' levels, with 'O' level maths coming later ... 

As a boy, I had always wanted to be a policeman and years later whilst in the Army I was posted to 

Kowloon, as a Royal Military Policeman. 

I spent four years in Hong Kong, most of my time on observation watching the Chinese Border at Fan 

Ling and Sekong. 

Thereafter I spent 4 years in Rhodesia where I joined the British South Africa Police. This move I 

regretted as at the time it was a dreadfully racist country, a self governing colony run by an ex R.A.F. Lt 

named Smith. 

It was not a good place for Brenda and I to be putting down roots. 

Eventually I left Rhodesia and joined the Cumberland Fire Service as a trainee aged 26, as opposed to 

the usual age for trainee's at 18! 

I then got married. 

I remember meeting Brian D Powell, our Sub Offcer at Whitehaven, he soon put me right, a good fre 

offcer and dependable person who earned the respect from everyone who worked alongside him. 

After fve or six years I became Sub Offcer myself at Whitehaven with Brian working on another watch. 

I thoroughly enjoyed my time in the service before moving to London Fire Brigade and cannot speak 

more highly of Brian who I am proud to call my friend. 

~ John Wilson 

40


Cumberland News ~ March 1978 

'The stretcher is particularly useful, I am impressed' 

Rescue organisations from all over the UK were 

clambering to see a revolutionary new stretcher 

invented by Penrith man Brian D. Powell. 

Local education figures and members of the 

Ullswater Outward Bound School gave it 

unanimous approval following rigorous tests on 

the Lakeland crags. A typical rescue exercise was 

enacted to test the potential of the new stretcher 

and it came through with flying colours! 

Squadron Leader Lester Davies, said afterwards: 

“I am impressed. The stretcher will be particularly useful when there is not a 

big rescue team. It is surprisingly easy for just the one man to carry it." 

The lightweight stretcher packs into a 28lb. rucksack made of rubber and nylon. It is inflated in 

two minutes forming a 6.5 foot long rigid frame as designer/inventor Brian Powell explains: 

"The big advantage is that it can be floated on 

water. Its use over swamp bog, grass, scree and 

snow has also proved extremely effective. 

He continued: We have experienced great 

problems using the present wooden frame 

stretchers in underground rescues and until now 

there has been no suitable replacement. 

He added: Needless to say, this stretcher is badly 

needed down the coal mine.” 

41


and from SOLWAY coastguards … ~ March 1978 

'a beautiful piece of workmanship' 

If successful the multi-purpose aid could be used for sea rescue, as well as boosting safety on 

the killer Solway coast. 

The inflatable stretcher was invented by Brian Powell, Deputy Divisional Commander at 

Carlisle fire station. The first test for the 28lb prototype was held on the icy waters at BurghbySands 

and the local coastguard rated it a great success! The stretcher is designed to protect the 

victims while bringing them safely to shore. 

It was the latest in a series of tests for the new stretcher, having already been tried out in pothole 

rescue situations. 

= 

Solway Coastguards Chief, Ken Russell commented: 

'It's a beautiful piece of workmanship ...“It's lightweight and versatile and 

could adequately cope with sea rescues!” 

It can be floated or dragged across sands which would be very useful here when 

people are trapped on the sandbanks. 

42


< Brian introducing the stretcher to 

The Ullswater Outward Bound School. 

Brian strapped in 

to test his own creation! > 

The Ullswater Outward Bound School 

With 18 acres of woodland at the heart of Wordsworth country, the centre is based on the 

north shore of Ullswater. Participants can canoe or kayak on the lake, or enjoy a stay in our high 

mountain lodge as part of an expedition to climb Helvellyn ... 

one of The Lake District's highest peaks. 

Telephone: +44 (0) 01931 740 000 

43


“For he's a jolly good fellow!” 

Hats off as Brian calls it a day! 

February 1986 

The men on Red Watch of the Carlisle Division, Cumbria Fire Service, give 

Assistant Divisional Officer Brian D. Powell, of Great Corby, a rousing send off 

on the occasion of his retirement after 30 years of service. 

44


3. Life after 'The Service?' 

Shirley and Brian were to travel extensively during retirement 

Along the way they visited Europe and the Far-East, Australia and New Zealand, 

amongst others, meeting many people and making lots of friends as they went. 

Wherever they were visiting Brian took the opportunity to soak up the landscapes and 

local vistas, absorbing the visual experiences. Sketching and dabbling along the way, he 

transferred the notable from mind to brush to palette, a touch of water and then to board 

as he developed his own signature style of watercolour art. 

Inspiration? Brian's own father who was himself, in Brian's words 'quite a good artist.' 

Now, with just a little gentle encouragement from Shirley and having more time to 

spend with his grandchildren, Brian's original boyhood passion was to be revisited. 

Back at home retirement brought the opportunity to develop those artistic skills he'd 

always possessed and now the 'inventive fireman' was free to combine that natural 

spontaneity with a voracious appetite for the creative opportunity. 

Like many before him Brian was seduced by the natural beauty of Great Corby and the 

stunning Cumbrian scene, especially around the Solway. It was here Brian was to spend 

much time supporting the art 'scene' through numerous charitable initiatives, local 

community causes and art exhibitions. 

Of course, Brian was soon busy with the Yorkshire Artists, Brampton Arts & Crafts 

Club, Carlisle and Cumbria Artists plus many others, including what was to become a 

famous association with Wetherall Artists. 

45


Brian soon found that his prolific creative output was enough to support exhibitions 

further afield including Belfast and London. 

It was at around this time, during 1984, that Brians resourceful, easy manner brought 

him yet another extraordinary opportunity. 

Partnerships. 

Brian was at Brampton Arts and Crafts Club when a chance meeting with a retired 

advertising guru by the name of Geoff Driver, saw the like-minded pair 'hit it off' almost 

instantly … and it wasn't long before both were introduced to Ray Nichol, a former 

architectural specialist. This meeting of like-minds heralding the beginnings of a 

creative triumvirate that continues to this day ... 

Ray Nichol, Brian D. Powell, Geoff Driver 

46


featuring … D'Arkonion! 

47


48


The Three Brushketeers! 

We all met as volunteer committee members 

of the prestigious Carlisle and Cumbria Art 

Exhibition set up by a lady called Molly 

Mawson to help provide funds for the 

maintenance of Carlisle Cathedral. 

We three, Brian, Geoff and Ray struck up a 

friendship having similar interests and 

ambitions for the Exhibition, which we saw as 

becoming a national event. This of course 

meant m ore work and c hanges to 

arrangements within the Fratry display hall 

that the Dean and Chapter granted us. 

Initially our suggestions were lauded, 

acclaimed and adopted. However, not 'all 

the best laid plans' come to fruition and 'we 

three' then decided to channel our efforts 

into a new direction. We decided to try 

exhibiting on our own to gain knowledge of 

what we were undertaking. 

It was on a return trip from a particularly 

unsatisfactory visit at Penrith, Brian, summed 

up our generally held opinions by saying: 

'We should go it alone chaps.' 

That's how it was decided, democratically! 

He wasn't fnished … 

'And we should call ourselves …' 

The Three Brusketeers! 

How history is made! 

As a frst venture, I managed to approach and 

agree with the central church of St Cuthbert's to 

let us have the use of their large ancient parish 

hall, the Tithe Barn, for our frst exhibition, on 

condition we paid a proportion of our 

anticipated profts. So, Brian and I being the 

practical ones set to, and built large wall panels 

and table units which were all demountable and 

storable in my garage. 

Geoff, with his previous experience of 

advertising, was in charge of publicity. Because 

of the size of the Tithe Barn, we realised we 

would require of a hundred paintings or more, 

so we asked another friend, Derek Bowman, to 

join us as our D'arkonion, which he readily did. 

This frst exhibition and all subsequent 

exhibitions were erected, manned and 

stewarded entirely by ourselves. We made a 

good proft for the church and as consequence 

were informed they would welcome future 

events. 

>>>>>>> 

49


The Three Brushketeers? 

Brushketeers! (cont.) 

After this preliminary success we were 

welcomed at a number of other and various 

venues throughout the county, our home made 

display units performing perfectly. 

Branching out in this way was extremely 

gratifying but the travelling and stewarding 

were extremely onerous and we decided, if 

possible to have a more permanent base, which 

fortunately, through Brian's good contacts, we 

were offered an annual exhibition at Wetheral 

church. 

This became our permanent yearly display and 

went from strength to strength. We even invited 

well known local artists to exhibit with us, 

attracting many local characters also. 

Eventually 'anno domiinii' catches up and a 

health problem meant I had to move away and 

leave the group, which created a signifcant 

change in the make up. This was overcome to 

some extent by the introduction of new blood 

supporting Brian and Geoff to ensure the Art 

Exhibition carried on, which it does to this day 

albeit in a much altered form. 

~ Ray Nichol 

50


51


52


… A.K.A. The Three Brusketeers ... 

Three retired gentlemen with a shared interest and plenty of spare time in which to pursue our 

passion for painting. Brian Powell, retired freman with his unique skill in watercolours, Ray Nichol 

with a delightful ability to capture in oils, everyday scenes of Carlisle and landscapes, and myself, 

a keen walker with a career background in advertising, surrounded by the lakes and fells of 

Cumbria, enough material to fll at least three lifetimes! 

Ray, with his many contacts had an idea which would lead, eventually to many exhibitions. His 

idea was to put together a ready-made package of purpose designed fxtures and fttings which 

would include interlocking hardboard panels, lighting and 'A' frames. The incentive was to offer a 

percentage on all paintings sold, to each venue to be used as required. 

I recall our frst 'taker' was an invitation to put on an exhibition at Wetheral Church so we set out to 

provide our purpose made package in Ray Nichol's garage. We purchased all the necessary 

materials and got to work. Then we needed to transport our equipment and fortunately Ray knew 

someone with a large fat-bed truck who was destined to become our 'roadie.' 

Arrangements were made with the church for a week-long exhibition between weddings, funerals 

and other church matters and it was a highly successful week with a steady fow of visitors 

admiring our work and purchasing our paintings and we were kept busy as people followed my 

hand painted directional panels which were hung from any convenient lamp post at every 

entrance to Wetheral village. 

Over the years I have kept samples of our posters which give an indication of how successful we 

became. The list is long, ranging from Carlisle to many venues throughout Cumbria. They include 

Dalston, Orton, Ivegill, Caldbeck, Brampton, Watermillock to name but a few. They were not 

always happy affairs. At the Tithe Barn in Carlisle two unsavoury youths stole our money box! 

Fortunately Ray had banked our day's takings and the empty box was subsequently recovered 

from a car park in Carlisle. 

Now we have gone our separate ways. Brian to Alnmouth, Ray to Chorley and me to my 

memories, and my garden on the outskirts of Carlisle. 

~ Geoff Driver 

53


It's a WHOPPING £15,000! 

via The Three Brushketeers 

(& D'Arkonion!) 

Right: Derek Bowman (standing) 

Brian Powell, Geoff Driver & 

Ray Nichol. 

54


55


56


Come and join us Brian. 

'we think you may be on to something ...' 

In 1989 Brian was contacted by the 

'International Institute of Risk and Safety 

Management.' 

Recognising Brian's pioneering work in the 

field of public education, accident prevention 

and occupational health, 'The Institute' 

approached Brian and requested that he 

consider joining them. 

He duly accepted their offer. 

During the following year and in recognition 

of the significant work & numerous 

contributions made in the name of research 

and exploration, Brian was also enrolled as a 

member of the 'National Geographic 

Society,' 

Between 1975 and 1986, Brian is recognised 

by both organisations as the driving force 

behind some of the most innovative thinking 

ever undertaken in the field of Risk 

Management and Health and Safety. 

Brians innovative ideas have indeed gained > 

57


commercial recognition & investment. 

Some have even been taken into full-blown 

production and have become easily 

recognisable in today's everyday lifestyle. 

Hence, many of Brian's innovations, some 

of which we have highlighted in this book 

have proved the benchmark to a host of 

today's state-of-the-art technological 

advances. 

~ Removable, Portable Operational Pods 

~ The Fireman's Haul 

~ Oil Rig/Tanker Escape Modules 

~ Portable Decontamination Chamber 

~ The Powell All-Terrain Stretcher … 

Brian's story? 

It does not stop here ... 

See for yourself ... 

Why not check the following list to see if 

any are familiar to you: 

~ Tackling Wheel Fires (Cumbria Tyre Blanket) 

~ Fire Check Self Closing Doors 

~ Fire Service All-Purpose Rescue Unit 

~ Tanker Anti-Spillage Valve 

~ Portable, Automatic Smoke Detection 

~ Fire Detection for Sleeper Cabs 

~ Fixed Fire-Attack System for Aircraft 

~ Aircraft Seating Fire Protection 

~ Underfloor Fire Extinguishers for Rail 

58


A few words from Jim Sinclair ... 

I frst met Brian at a demo of a decontamination equipment held at Stirling Fire Brigade H.Q. I was Sales Director for 

W. Paterson (Safety) Ltd., and I was, at that time, looking to expand our breathing apparatus and compressor business into 

the North of England. 

I thought Brian would be the type of person to fll this 

post, being a retired Fire Offcer he already new about 

breathing apparatus and the use of, and therefore 

would be able to sell our equipment in this feld in 

England.I arranged to meet Brian with the owner of the 

company, Wilf Paterson, for an interview at the Crown 

Hotel in Weatherall (around 1987) and after the 

interview we decided Brian would be ideal as our 

representative South of the border. 

I was not disappointed about our choice, Brian settled 

into this post like the proverbial 'duck to water.' 

He was able to develop a very good ground base and 

brought a good deal of business into the company. 

To assist Brian with the sales side I often travelled down to Great Corby and together, Brian and I travelled all over the area 

tying up business. 

Brian and I became friends more than work colleagues, Shirley, his wife always had the kettle on when I arrived at his 

home in Great Corby. 

Brian as a person was loyal and honest in his dealings with his customers and they all spoke highly of him.Suffce to say 

that even though we both retired about the same time, we have remained in contact all these years. 

I also liked Brian's paintings and have quite a few in my house with visitors often remarking how good they are. 

~ Jim Sinclair 

59


'Just a thought' 

When you buy something from an Artist you are buying more than an object. 

You're buying hundreds of hours of errors and experimentation 

You're buying years of frustration and moments of pure joy 

You're not just buying one thing, you are buying a piece of the heart, 

a piece of the soul and a small piece of someone else's life. 

60


“Early Dawn. Little Water” 

NSW Australia 

Watercolour 1996 

61


“On The Beach at Red Dawn” 


62


“A Coastal Dawn” 

Tasmania 


63


“A Northumberland Dawn” 


64


“Murray River Near Renmark” 

South Australia 


65


“Dawn Spectacular” 


Acrylic 1996 

66


“Misty Tarn” 

Cumberland 


67


“Joining Of The River Beds” 

Haas Pass, South Island, New Zealand 


68


“Sundown, Warwick On Eden” 

Watercolour 

69


“Early Morning On The Murray” 



70


“The Jetty, Brighton” 

Adelaide, South Australia 


71


“Flinders Range” 

North Of Melrose, South Australia 


72


“Murray River Near Renmark” 



73


“Evening, Kent Estuary” 


74


“Kangaroo Island, Near Backstairs Passage” 



75


“Rain Sky” 


76


“Dawn Breaks Over The Eden” 


77


“Dawn Breaks” 

Tasmania 


78


“A Highland Dawn” 


79


“Fish & Chips Tonight” 


80


“First Light, Low Water” 


81


“Billabong Near Korunda” 


Acrylic 1996 

82


“The Cove At Low Water” 


83


“Black Hills” 

New Norfolk, Tasmania 

Acrylic 1996 

84


“Dawn Over Low Water” 


85


“Dawn Near Broken Hill” 

Acrylic 1996 

86


“First Light Of The Golden Dawn” 


87


“Winter” 

Nr. Aston, Cumbria 


88


“Evening” 



89


“Kidsty Pike” 


90


“A Lakeland Dawn” 


91


“At Berth” 

Western Isles, Mull 


92


“South From Broken Hill” 

Acrylic 1996 

93


“This Seems Like A Nice Place” 

Bassenthwaite 


94


“A Walk By The River In The Snow” 

Watercolour 

95


“A Coastal Rocky Outcrop” 


96


“Winter Above Kentmere” 


97


“Thirlmere, Lakeland” 


98


“Never Mind The Weather” 

Distant Isle Of Skye 


99


“Southern Flinders Range” 


Acrylic 1996 

100


“River Eden Nr. Wetheral” 

Cumbria 


101


“Winter Peaks, Borrowdale” 

Lakeland 


102


“Cumberland Coast” 


103


“Lake King William” 

Tasmania 

Acrylic 1996 

104


“Good Morning World” 


105


“Dark Morning Leaving Fox” 

South Island. New Zealand 


106


The Watercolour Artist, Brian D. Powell 

Alnmouth, 2018 

Photograph courtesy of Ian Moyes via www.ivall.uk 

107


Let's meet the family 

108


^Jane and Kevin (Mac) McHugh 

with daughter Harriet and son Ben 

109


^ David Powell (right) with son Jake, daughters Lois and Rachel 

110


Happy Anniversary! 

Diamond Wedding 

Shirley & Brian 

16 th March 2017 

111


80 not out! 

112


Further copies of this booklet are available by contacting the publisher: 

Charlie Kenny via telephone +44 (0)1665 577084 or email charliekenny@live.co.uk 

Otherwise through the website www.charliekenny.me 

113

Thoughts of a Watercolour Artist

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