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BRIGADE MOURNS BLAST VICTIMS FIREFIGHTERS from Eastbourne have spoken of their devastation at the fatal fire at a fireworks factory in Ringmer at the weekend which claimed the lives of two of their colleagues. BRIGADE MOURNS BLAST VICTIMS FIREFIGHTERS from Eastbourne have spoken of their devastation at the fatal fire at a fireworks factory in Ringmer at the weekend which claimed the lives of two of their colleagues. Former firefighter Brian Wembridge, who worked as a photographer for East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, and retained firefighter Geoff Wicker from Heathfield died during a massive explosion at Festival Fireworks in Ringmer on Sunday. Crews from Eastbourne, Hailsham and the surrounding villages rushed along the A22 to the blaze and ambulance crews from Eastbourne and Hailsham were also called in to ferry injured firefighters and police officers to both Eastbourne District General and Royal Sussex County hospitals. Residents in villages as far away as Westham and Hankham heard the blast when hundreds of thousands of pounds of fireworks exploded at around 3pm. Firefighters at Eastbourne Fire Station said on Tuesday they were devastated at the death of their two colleagues and their sympathies and thoughts were with their families. Chief fire officer Des Pritchard said, "It is a very traumatic and shocking event. They will be greatly missed. My thoughts and deepest sympathies are with their families and friends and colleagues." A book of condolences is now at the Eastbourne station in Whitley Road, which members of the public can sign. Floral tributes are also being left at the service's headquarters in Eastbourne's Upperton Road, where Mr Bembridge was based. A spokesperson for East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said the organisation was already overwhelmed by the messages of kindness, support and empathy it was receiving from all over the country in relation to the tragic events of December 3. A memorial fund has also been set up at the NatWest bank. Donations can be made at all branches or cheques made payable to the East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service Memorial Fund can be sent to East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service Memorial Fund, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, Service Headquarters, 20 Upperton Road, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN21 1EU. [email protected] 05 December 2006 |
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