A new memorial has been unveiled for a Stockport fireman who died during an emergency call-out.

In a ceremony at 2pm today, a new plaque was unveiled in Stockport's Merseyway Centre pays tribute to Howard Beckwith, who died 100 years ago in December 1926 when his fire-engine crashed on Wellington Bridge.

Representatives from the Fire Brigades Union and Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue Service came together to mark the occasion, along with Stockport MP Navendu Mishra.

The new plaque is owned by the Fire Brigades Union, who worked with Stockport Council and Merseyway Centre to have it installed just near the Mersey Square entrance of the covered mall.

The plaque is located at the Mersey Square entrance to the covered mall (Image - Nub News)

Dave Russell, Chief Fire Officer at Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue Service, said: "The history and memory of Howard Beckwith is really important.

"I do think that what we see on the plaque is a very fitting way to remember firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

"Firefighting is not a risk-free occupation, even in 2026.

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"I have enormous pride in the courage and bravery of firefighters - not just from Stockport, but from right across Manchester and indeed across the UK."

Stockport MP Navendu Mishra said it was a 'real honour' to attend the ceremony.

"On behalf of the people of Stockport, I pay tribute to Howard and his family, as well as all serving and retired firefighters. They keep us all safe.

"My thanks to the Fire Brigades Union for sponsoring my 2025 Christmas Card, which also included a tribute to Howard."

It comes just a few days before the new fire station at King Street West is due to open for service. It will make Stockport the only constituency in the country to have two fire stations - the other being in Reddish.