The family of a firefighter who died tackling a blaze at the former Jenners department store have invited the public to pay their respects. Barry Martin, 38, from Fife, joined Fire and Rescue colleagues battling a blaze which had ripped through the historic landmark on Edinburgh's Royal Mile on 23 January when he suffered critical injuries.
The dad of two was rushed to the Royal Infirmary as medics fought to stabilise the heroic firefighter. Sadly, his injuries proved to be fatal and he died four days later on 27 January.
Barry's funeral is to be held at St Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh on February 17. His family have invited the public to pay their respects by lining the Royal Mile from 12pm as his procession makes its way to the Cathedral.
A death notice for Barry reads: “Sudden and tragically in the line of duty as a firefighter, on January 27, 2023, Barry, beloved husband of Shelley, much loved father Oliver and Daniel, dear son of Carol and Bill and a much loved brother, son-in-law, uncle, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend to many.”
The notice added: “Service at St Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh, on Friday, February 17 at 12.30pm, by invitation. People are welcome to pay their respects on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, from 12 noon, as the cortege makes its way to the cathedral.
“A private committal thereafter.”
Alex Cole-Hamilton, Edinburgh Western MSP, has led calls for the firefighter to be awarded a posthumous George Cross, the highest non-military award for gallantry available. The Scottish Lib Dem leader said at the time: "This is devastating news, thinking tonight of all those who knew and loved Barry. When we run from danger, these guys run towards it. Barry did one of the most dangerous jobs there is.
"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."
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon described his death in the line of duty as “dreadfully sad news”. She added: “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."
Ross Haggart, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s interim chief officer, said he and his colleagues were “devastated” at Barry's death. He 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."
In total, six emergency workers were taken to hospital in response to the blaze. Two firefighters were treated for burns and a police officer and firefighter for smoke inhalation.
All have since been discharged.
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