Bicester in Mourning: A Visit to Garth Park

Earlier today, I visited Garth Park and the offices of Bicester Town Council to sign the three books of condolence opened following the devastating fire at Bicester Motion. I was joined by Miranda Markham DL, representing the Lord-Lieutenant of Oxfordshire, and the Revd Peter Wright from St Edburg’s Church, who offered words of quiet reflection as we paid our respects.

Three lives were lost in the tragedy: Jennie Logan, 30, and Martyn Sadler, 38, both firefighters with Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service who died in the line of duty; and David Chester, 57, a father of two and local businessman with deep ties to the Bicester community.

It is difficult to put into words the sense of sorrow that has settled across the town. There has been an outpouring of grief, but also a remarkable demonstration of unity and compassion. Bicester is a town with a big heart, and it has shown that heart in the most extraordinary way — through floral tributes, quiet vigils, and powerful moments of shared silence.

The books of condolence, laid out in Garth House, allow people to honour each individual by name — and I was deeply moved by the care and thoughtfulness of the messages left by so many. Just a few steps away, the fountain in Garth Park is surrounded by flowers, cards, and tributes — among them, a rugby ball signed by friends from the Bicester Vixens, the women’s team Jennie and Martyn supported, marked with the words “Our Brave Heroes”.

Jennie has been remembered as strong, modest, determined — someone who quietly made things happen. Martyn’s friends describe him as full of warmth and humour, a man whose presence lifted spirits. David was a longstanding part of the Bicester Motion estate — respected, kind, and woven into the fabric of local life.

Each loss is profound, and each will be felt deeply — by family, friends, colleagues, and across the community.

As I added my own message to the books, I was struck again by the power of small gestures: a few handwritten lines, a quiet moment of reflection, the simple act of turning up. All of them matter. All of them help.

Plans are already beginning to take shape for a permanent memorial, and I know the community will come together, in time, to ensure each of these lives is properly and permanently honoured.

For now, the tributes at Garth Park and the messages in the books speak volumes. They reflect not just the depth of the loss, but the strength of the community that mourns.