FIREFIGHTERS from Malvern are trying to find the rightful owner to four oil paintings found in the fire station.

The paintings of 1930s aircraft were found in the boiler room and have not seen the light of day for almost 20 years.

Ian Seward, station commander, said it was a very surprising discovery.

"The boiler room was being cleared out by personnel from the station," said Mr Seward. "I suspect they were once on the walls of the old fire station in Howsell Road.

"When we moved to the new station in Worcester Road in 1984 they were put in the boiler room because there was no where else to put them. They are in very good condition."

Station Commander Seward said they recently thought they had found the artist after reading Mike Grundy's Memory Lane column in the Evening News.

He said the article featured a picture of a painting very similar to one of the paintings they had found.

"The article said it was painted by Morris Jones and the paintings we found were signed by 'Jones', but when we got in contact with him he said it wasn't him."

He added that he would prefer to find a more suitable home for the paintings rather than keep them at the station.

"Aeroplanes and fire stations don't really go together. Somewhere like a British Royal Legion club would be great."

If anyone recognises the paintings they should call Malvern Fire Station of 01684 572984 and ask for Commander Seward.