Bicester comes together to support families of fallen firefighters and member of the public
A plaque has been placed outside Bicester Motion, and a book of condolences was opened today at Garth Park.
A fire last week in Bicester that claimed the lives of three people, has left the community in shock.
Firefighters - Jennie Logan and Martyn Sadler - as well as local businesses owner, David Chester, all sadly died.
The site of the fire, an automotive and heritage location known as Bicester Motion, remains closed with a large police presence while authorities carry out an unexplained death inquiry.
In the days since the tragedy, residents have gathered to pay their respects by laying flowers, writing poems, and leaving messages of support.
A plaque has been placed outside Bicester Motion, and a book of condolences was opened today at Garth Park.
One message left by a member of the public reads: "Our thoughts spread to your family and friends at this most difficult time. We will remember you all."
The Mayor of Bicester, Alisa Russell, spoke about the community’s response, saying: "Everybody is still in shock. I was really humbled by how the community managed to come together to support each other from Bicester town to surrounding villages. As the town council, we’re here all day ready to support people and help the families of those affected as much as possible."
She added: "We are trying to find ways to honour these people, who selflessly gave their lives to save others. We have proposals and plans, but we must speak with the families first and respect their wishes. There is an investigation in progress, so we will release more information in time."
Trevor Ballinger, a local resident, described the deaths as totally unexpected. He said, “You don’t expect heroes like the fire service or police to lose their lives in the course of their duty.”
. “Everyone has been affected by it, and many people have come to pay their respects by laying flowers.”
He also said the loss feels very close to home. “It’s a shock when it happens close to home. The people involved are neighbours, family members, friends — it touches everyone in the community.”
The investigation into the cause of the fire at Bicester Motion continues.