On 15 May, during the tragic incident at Bicester Motion, firefighters Jennie Logan and Martyn Sadler sadly lost their lives, alongside father-of-two Dave Chester.
In the aftermath of the incident, we have been moved by so many members of our fire family, as well as individual members of the public, companies and other organisations – including Bicester Rugby Union Football Club – taking steps to raise funds for the charity to honour and remember Jennie and Martyn, and all those affected by this tragic fire.
We are so grateful for the support shown for the health and wellbeing of our firefighters and their colleagues, and for the work of this charity.
Here we shine a light on firefighters from across the UK who completed an epic endurance challenge recently to honour the memory of their two former FRS colleagues, who tragically lost their lives in the Bicester fire…
Covering more than 700 miles on foot and bike, the firefighters from Scotland, Somerset and Norfolk arrived together at Bicester Fire Station on 6 August, the home station of Jennie and Martyn.
Gavin Callander and Grant Bailey, based in Glasgow, cycled 400 miles over two days, starting at Scottish Fire and Rescue HQ on 5 August. Meanwhile, Scott Butler, from Somerset, ran 150 miles in just three days from Bridgwater Fire Station, and Nick Winter, based in Great Yarmouth, completed a one-day, 170-mile cycle ride from Norfolk.
They presented a flag of their respective Fire and Rescue Services with messages of support to Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, and were also met by Martyn’s wife at the station.
All funds raised will go towards our vital work, providing care and support to UK fire service personnel and their families, during and after service.
Gavin said the challenge is incredibly close to all of their hearts:
“Scott and Martyn started out together in Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue a few years ago, and Nick and I later joined. We were a close-knit service while we were all there and have incredible memories of our time.
“For me, this challenge was about doing our bit for a cause that means the world to us. It was two days of real physical and mental endurance, in memory of two firefighters who paid the ultimate sacrifice. This was for their family, their friends and everyone who had the privilege of knowing them.
“If it helps raise money and awareness, then it’s all worth it. I’ve had support from Fire Fighters Charity during a tough time myself, so I know first-hand just how much of a lifeline they are. Knowing the money we raise could help someone else in the fire service get the help they need means everything.”
Lyndsay Campbell, Regional Fundraiser at Fire Fighters Charity, said:
“This has been an incredibly moving challenge, and on behalf of everyone at Fire Fighters Charity, I want to sincerely thank Gavin, Grant, Scott, and Nick for their amazing support. The funds they’re raising will make a real difference – helping us continue to support members of our fire family through the health and wellbeing challenges they and their loved ones may face, both during and after service.
What’s been especially powerful is seeing how deeply committed they are to honouring Martyn and Jennie’s memory. It means so much.”
Mike Adcock, Deputy Chief Fire Officer of Oxfordshire County Council Fire and Rescue Service, added:
“This is a totally epic challenge, and I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Gavin, Grant, Scott and Nick for their extraordinary efforts. Their determination and compassion have not only honoured Jennie and Martyn, but reminded us all of the strength and unity within the fire and rescue community.
“We are so grateful for the support of the Fire Fighters Charity, whose work is a lifeline for so many in the fire and rescue sector. The fundraising response following the heartbreaking incident at Bicester Motion has been phenomenal. In the face of such devastation, the outpouring of togetherness and generosity has been nothing short of inspiring.”
To support the team’s fundraiser, click below:
This is one of many incredible tribute fundraisers which have been held in memory of Jennie and Martyn, including a huge fundraiser by the rugby club which they were both members of – a moving tribute to each of them.
If you feel you’d benefit from our support, you can call our Support Line on 0800 389 8820 or make an enquiry online.