TRIBUTES have poured in for a Rosyth firefighter who died days after he was critically-injured in a blaze at the historic Jenners building in Edinburgh.

Barry Martin, who was based in Edinburgh but lived in Fife, died on Friday afternoon.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said it was "deeply saddened" to confirm Barry's death.

Interim chief officer Ross Haggart said: "It is with profound sadness that I confirm, on behalf of his family, that Barry Martin has passed away this afternoon following the serious injuries he sustained during a large-scale fire at the former Jenners building in Edinburgh.

"Barry, who was being treated at Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, had been in a critical condition since Monday's fire.

"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."

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said it was "dreadfully sad news".

Posting on Twitter, she added: "My deepest condolences go to Barry’s family, friends and colleagues. This is a terrible tragedy for all who loved him – but also a reminder of the selfless courage our firefighters demonstrate in the line of duty each and every day."

Edinburgh MSP Alex Cole-Hamilton MSP called for the firefighter to be recognised posthumously.

"Barry did one of the most dangerous jobs there is," he stated. "He put his life on the line for his colleagues and our city and paid the ultimate price for so doing. His family are in our thoughts tonight.

"He deserves the highest civilian honour there is. He should be awarded the George Cross."

Rosyth councillor Andrew Verrecchia also took to social media to express his sadness. ·

"Desperately saddened to hear of the death of Rosyth firefighter Barry Martin, who has died today as a result of the injuries he sustained at the fire in Jenners department store," he said.

"My thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time."

City of Edinburgh Council’s leader Cammy Day also paid tribute.

“I’m incredibly sad to hear about the death of firefighter Barry Martin," he said. “My heartfelt sympathy goes out to his family, friends and colleagues.

"It’s at these tragic times that we’re reminded of the immense bravery and selflessness of our firefighters and emergency service workers – putting their lives on the line day-in, day-out to keep us safe.

“I know this will be an extremely difficult time for many people and my thoughts are very much with them all.”

Matt Wrack, general secretary of the Fire Brigades Union, said everyone in the Scottish and UK Fire and Rescue Service was devastated by Barry's death.

He said: "Our hearts go out to Barry's family, colleagues and friends, and to all those who mourn his loss.

"Barry was a dedicated firefighter and a well-loved member of the firefighting community. We are very proud that he was a member of our union. Like so many firefighters, he put himself at risk to save the lives of others.

"In due course, we will investigate the events that led to his death. Today, we are grieving for a colleague and a friend."

A total of 22 fire appliances were sent to the scene at Rose Street after the fire was reported at about 11.30am last Monday.

Five firefighters and one police officer were taken to hospital after attending the fire.

Two firefighters were treated for burns, and a police officer and two firefighters received treatment for smoke inhalation. They have since been discharged.

Superintendent David Robertson, of Police Scotland's Edinburgh Division, said: “Our thoughts are with the family, friends and colleagues of Barry at this very difficult time. Our inquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances.”