Fireman killed in depot blast had come out of retirement

LEWES Books of condolence have opened for two firemen killed in a massive explosion at a fireworks warehouse.

Brian Wembridge, 63, and Geoff Wicker, 49, were killed when they were sent in to tackle a blaze at the Festival Fireworks depot at Shortgate, near Lewes, East Sussex.

The building was rocked by an explosion that was heard ten miles away.

Mr Wembridge was a retired fireman and photographer who had been re-employed to give extra support to crews in East Sussex.

Known as Charlie at Crowborough fire station, he was one of the longest-serving firefighters there.

Nine other firefighters were injured. Their injuries are not thought serious and only two remain in hospital.

They are: Clive Widgey, Peter Lilley and Will Marley, from Barcombe fire