A NATIONWIDE search is underway at Blenheim Palace to find one of its Victorian fire engines.

The horse-drawn engine used a steam boiler to create pressure to pump water and was believed to have been built by Merryweather & Sons in 1890.

After many years of operation in the Blenheim fire brigade, the engine was taken out of service.

It was repaired recently in Kent before going to a new owner in Brighton, but never returned to the palace.

Anyone who can help locate the fire engine can email operations@blenheimpalace.com.