Firefighters from across Scotland will join the family and friends of hero firefighter Barry Martin at his funeral later today.
The 38-year-old sadly died last month following the serious injuries he sustained during a large-scale fire at the former Jenners building.
His colleagues and members of the public are expected to line the Royal Mile from midday as his coffin travels to St Giles Cathedral for a special service at 12.30pm.
The father-of-two from Fife, was the beloved husband of Shelley, 36, and much-loved father of eight-year-old twins Oliver and Daniel.
In an emotional tribute Shelly said how she felt “utterly privileged” to be his wife.
She said: “Our sons could not have wished for a more loving and attentive father. He was a busy dad, transporting our sons to their various activities, and being there for them.
“I felt utterly privileged to be his wife throughout our life together and always will.
“Barry was motivated, proud, and driven to be the best he could be, for himself, for his family, for his colleagues, and for the community and wider public.
“Being there for people, during their time of greatest need, meant everything to him in his career.
“Our love, admiration and respect for him, will last forever.”
Prior to joining the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Barry was a Pest Control Technician and set up his own company with Shelley.
He was passionate about health and fitness and had a particular interest in the tattoo industry.
Barry was based at McDonald Road Community Fire Station in Edinburgh and was part of the Blue Watch.
The Blue Watch in all Edinburgh stations will be stood down on the day of Barry’s funeral to allow staff to attend the service, should they wish to do so.
Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Interim Chief Officer Ross Haggart said: “Our thoughts remain very firmly with Barry Martin’s family as we plan to come together at St Giles’ Cathedral to pay our respects.
“Barry was a much-loved husband, father, son and friend to many. His Blue Watch colleagues and the wider Service will ensure that Barry’s selfless duty will never be forgotten.”
Barry’s family wish to thank everyone for their support, wishes and love at the hardest time of their lives.
Fire and rescue services fell silent on Monday, as a minute’s silence was observed to pause and reflect on Barry’s life and sacrifice.
That silence reached the earthquake disaster area of Turkey, where firefighters from the UK International Search and Rescue Team, stopped and paid a moving tribute to one of their own.
The funeral cortege will make its way from McDonald arriving at the base of the Royal Mile at midday and arriving at the Cathedral at 12.30pm when the service, by invitation, will begin. There will be a private committal thereafter.
As the funeral cortege makes its way through the city there will be several rolling road closures supported by Police Scotland, however disruption will be kept to a minimum.
