Explosion tragedy firefighters honoured

The families of Geoff Wicker, 49, from Heathfield, and Brian Wembridge, 63, from Crowborough, were given certificates of merit to recognise the men's outstanding bravery and careers.

The men died in a blast at Festival Fireworks, Shortgate, on December 3.

The national Spirit of Fire Awards ceremony, run by the Fire Services National Benevolent Fund, was held in Cambridge on Saturday night.

Chris Large, deputy chief fire officer, said: 'Brian and Geoff paid the ultimate sacrifice that any firefighter who responds to an emergency incident could pay.

'The strength and courage the families have shown - supporting each other and us over the past months - is amazing.'

The investigation to establish the cause of the fire and explosion at the fireworks depot is ongoing.