Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Edinburgh Live
Edinburgh Live
National
Kris Gourlay

Devastated locals turn Edinburgh Jenners into shrine for fallen firefighter

Scores of tributes have been left outside the former Jenners building in Edinburgh's city centre following the sad passing of firefighter Barry Martin on Friday.

Dozens of flowers and messages have been left next to the fencing that currently surrounds the historic building, following a devastating blaze that ravaged the interior and shocked the capital.

Police confirmed on Friday, January 27, that 38-year-old firefighter Barry Martin, who was in critical condition as a result of his heroic efforts in extinguishing the fire that broke out on Monday, sadly passed away in hospital.

READ MORE: Edinburgh footage shows reality of life on one of city's most deprived council estates

Four further firefighters and one police officer were also taken to hospital with injuries, but were later released.

Ross Haggart, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s interim chief officer, said colleagues were devastated to learn the news of Barry's passing, with both his family and the service being overwhelmed by messages of support.

Dozens of bouquets have been laid at the fencing which currently surrounds the building. (Edinburgh Live)

That support has been furthered by visual tributes left outside the building on Princes Street. Pictures taken on Sunday, January 29, show dozens of bunches of flowers being left on the fencing and on the pavement outside Jenners.

Many of the bouquets have messages attached to them, thanking Barry and the entire fire service for their continued heroic efforts in keeping the public safe and risking their lives doing so.

Colleagues within the fire service have been thanked for their life-saving work. (Edinburgh Live)

A huge piece of cardboard, sporting the message: "God bless our firefighters and keep them safe" has also been pictured attached to the metal fencing."

Speaking following the loss of Barry, Ross Haggart said: “I speak for the entire service when I say that we are all devastated by the loss of Barry and our thoughts remain with his family, friends and colleagues at this deeply distressing time.

"Both Barry’s family and the service have been overwhelmed with the messages of support we have received and we thank everyone for the time they have taken to share these. Barry’s family would also like to thank all the medical staff who have cared for him."

An investigation into the cause of the blaze which saw dozens of emergency services battle throughout the day remains ongoing.

READ NEXT:

The abandoned Edinburgh tunnel that runs beneath the New Town

We tried Edinburgh’s latest pizza spot and have some crucial advice

Scottish mum says terrified daughter was filmed being beaten up on a school bus

We compared Edinburgh's 'best burger' to Gordon Ramsay's newest offering

Plans to build block of Edinburgh flats in popular city beer garden

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.