COLLEAGUES who served alongside Rosyth firefighter Barry Martin were part of his final journey today (Friday) as a specially prepared Turntable Ladder was used to carry his coffin along the cortege route at his funeral in Edinburgh.
The 38 year-old tragically died on January 27 following the serious injuries he sustained during a large-scale fire at the former Jenners building in Edinburgh earlier that week.
The father-of-two was the beloved husband of Shelley, 36, and much-loved father of eight-year-old twins Oliver and Daniel. He was described by his wife as a remarkable man who was exhilarated to be a firefighter.
Hundreds of people gathered in Edinburgh to pay their respects as the cortege made its way along the Royal Mile to St Giles’ Cathedral for the funeral service.
Barry was given a Guard of Honour by colleagues from McDonald Road Community Fire Station.
A minute’s silence was observed by guests and Barry’s fellow Blue Watch firefighters, who were the pallbearers, accompanied their colleague for one last time.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) Interim Chief Officer, Ross Haggart, gave Barry the last salute before entering the Cathedral.
ICO Haggart said: “Our thoughts remain with Barry Martin’s wife Shelley, his sons Oliver and Daniel, and all his family, friends and colleagues who mourn his loss.
“Barry was part of Blue Watch at McDonald Road Community Fire Station, many of whom joined the cortege today to pay a fitting tribute to their colleague.
“They will remember Barry as a Firefighter who was hardworking and loyal and who displayed an unwavering commitment, not only to his family, but to his role within the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.
“I’d also like to say a heart-felt thank you to all the well-wishers who joined us here in Edinburgh, not only those in St Giles’ Cathedral but everyone who took their place along the Royal Mile.
“Since Barry’s death, we have been overwhelmed with messages of support from around the world and we are grateful to everyone for the time they have taken to share these.
“We all feel this loss deeply and we will ensure that Barry's selfless duty will never be forgotten.”
Barry's wife Shelley had earlier paid tribute to her beloved husband, describing him as a remarkable man who was exhilarated to be a firefighter.
"Our sons could not have wished for a more loving and attentive father," she said. "He was a busy dad, transporting our sons to their various activities and being there for them.
"I felt utterly privileged to be his wife throughout our life together and always will.
"Barry was motivated, proud and driven to be the best he could be, for himself, for his family, for his colleagues and for the community and wider public.
"Being there for people, during their time of greatest need, meant everything to him in his career.
"Our love, admiration and respect for him, will last forever.”
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