Memorial Service for Warwickshire's Heroes
Hundreds of firefighters, elected members and government ministers, from across the country paid tribute to the four firefighters who lost their lives in a warehouse fire in Atherstone on Stour on Friday 2 November 2007.
The service for John Averis, Ian Reid, Ashley Stephens, and Darren Yates-Badley was held on Friday 25 January at 2pm at Coventry Cathedral.
The Canon of Coventry Cathedral, Adrian Daffern, conducted the service. Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service’s Brigade Chaplain, The Reverend Canon David Capron and County Fire Officer, William Brown gave readings and tributes. Soprano singer Catherine Bott performed during the service.
County Fire Officer, William Brown said:
“The memorial service is our final goodbye. It allows us to collectively celebrate the lives of John, Ian, Ashley and Darren, all of whom were all very brave men dedicated to a job they loved.”
Hymns chosen by the families included Onward Christian Soldiers, The Lord’s my Shepherd, Give me oil in my lamp and Lord of all Hopefulness.