The new £65,000 station replaces the much older 1936 building, which had originally cost only £65. The upgraded facility includes modern training features such as a drill yard, drill tower, and a combined lecture and social room. Firefighters will now be alerted by personal pagers rather than home alarm bells, though the daytime siren will still be used.
During the ceremony, Mr. Weir praised the dedication of part‑time firefighters and the employers who allow them to respond during work hours. Medals were presented to Leading Fireman Philip Robinson and Fireman Ronald Mortimer of Henley, and to full‑time Fireman Reginald Murphy of Didcot. A Certificate of Service was given to retired Henley Station Officer Bill Grace, who served 25 years and rose through the ranks before retiring. His successor at Henley is former Reading firefighter John Gosby.