Thousands raised in memory of fallen firefighters

Stuart RustSouth of England
News imageRoyal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service A man is exercising on a rowing machine. He has an oxygen mask and visor over his face with a red tank strapped to his back. He is wearing a red T-shirt and the trousers from a firefighting uniform. Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service
The trainee firefighters completed a range of physical challenges while wearing their full kits

Trainee firefighters raised more than £4,000 by completing punishing physical challenges in memory of colleagues killed in a fire.

The event, held at The Lexicon in Bracknell, saw the group from Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service complete 3,000 burpees and a combined 228km (141 miles) on bikes, rowing and ski machines while wearing their full gear.

The fundraiser was organised in memory of Oxfordshire firefighters Martyn Sadler and Jennie Logan, who died in the Bicester Motion fire on 15 May 2025 alongside father-of-two Dave Chester.

Their deaths devastated the fire service and local communities, with tributes and fundraising efforts continuing one year on.

News imageRoyal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service A group of firefighters - two men and three women - pose for a photo. They are holding a charity bucket and wearing red T-shirts with Fire Fighters Charity printed on the front in white letters.Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service
The group raised thousands of pounds for the Fire Fighters Charity
News imageRoyal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service A group of firefighters are working out on exercise machines, while others watch on. In the centre is a large bear-like mascot figure in a firefighter's uniform who is taking part in the exercises. Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service
The group thanked the public for the support they provided throughout the event

Adam Brailsford, from the service, said: "The day went really well. We had fantastic support from the public and we think we've raised over £4,000 so far."

He also thanked The Lexicon for supporting the fundraiser, as well as the McDonald's in the shopping centre for donating food to keep participants going throughout the challenge.

News imageFamily Handouts Composite image of firefighters Martyn Sadler and Jennie Logan, as well as Dave Chester.Family Handouts
Martyn Sadler, Jennie Logan and Dave Chester were killed in the fire at Bicester Motion

The money raised will go to the Fire Fighters Charity, which provides support for serving and retired firefighters and their families.

The Bracknell challenge was one of many events held to honour those lost in Bicester while raising support for the wider fire service community.