Bicester Motion: Firefighter killed in blaze was 'wonderful guy'

BBC News

20-07-2025

A firefighter who was mentored by one of those killed during a fatal fire at a business park has said he was someone "who'd do anything for anybody".Martyn Sadler died alongside fellow firefighter Jennie Logan and member of the public Dave Chester in the blaze that engulfed a hangar on the Bicester Motion site on 15 May.Chris Roberts, who works for Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, said his former colleague had been a "wonderful guy".On Sunday, Mr Roberts is set to play in a football match at Ardley United, which is raising funds for the Firefighters Charity, in honour of those killed in the fire.
He said Mr Sadler had "just been that person on the end of the phone that I called as and when I needed to speak to somebody" when he started out in the fire service."Every time you saw him he had a smile on his face, he always had the time of day to come and speak to you and say hello," Mr Roberts said."He was just a really really genuine, nice guy who'd do anything for anybody and a guy who loved being a firefighter and making a difference on a daily basis."
Sunday's charity match will see an Ardley United team face off against a team of Oxford United legends - with former Yellows youth player Mr Roberts lining-up alongside U's icons, including James Constable and Alfie Potter.The match, which kicks off at 13:00 BST, will be officiated by a team of Premier League officials, led by referee and former firefighter Sam Allison.Ardley United chairman Ian Feaver said he was expecting a near capacity crowd for the game, which he said would be "amazing"."Its a great way to raise money for a very worthwhile charity, as well as having a good time while you're doing it," he told BBC Radio Oxford ahead of the match.
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