16 May 2025
A huge blaze which started in the evening (Thursday, May 15) at about 6pm has destroyed a large hangar at Bicester Heritage, the classic car centre at Bicester Airfield.
Fire crews were still at the site (Friday, May 16) with the fire still burning but under control, according to Oxfordshire County Council.
“Four fire and rescue crews remain in attendance at an ongoing serious incident at Bicester Motion having been called out at 18:39 yesterday evening (15 May),” said the council.
“The fire is still ongoing but is under control. Other support appliances remain on scene including a hydraulic platform, a water carrier, a command unit and a high volume pumping unit
“Advice for local residents to remain indoors and shut all windows has been lifted. Roads that were previously closed are now being opened but traffic is heavy.”
?? Major ongoing fire incident in the area of #Bicester Heritage in #Oxfordshire
??Chris Barr
Coverage here ??https://t.co/hgR5vIJZd3 pic.twitter.com/oneuPjHCYG— Oxford Mail (@TheOxfordMail) May 15, 2025
Bicester Motion, the company which runs Bicester Heritage and the airfield, issued this statement overnight (May 15), “Further to the incident this evening, we are grateful to the community for their kind words and support.
“We continue working closely with the emergency services. At the direction of the emergency services, the site will be closed on Friday 16 May and over the weekend. A further statement will be made as appropriate.”
BBC News reported: The firefighters who died in a blaze at Bicester Motion have been named as Jennie Logan and Martyn Sadler, while the member of the public who died is 57-year-old David Chester who worked at the site.
Police said both firefighters worked at Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service and Mr Sadler was also part of the London Fire Brigade.
Ms Logan, 30, and Mr Sadler, 38, died after explosions were heard at Bicester Motion on Thursday, Thames Valley Police said.
Two firefighters sustained serious injuries and remain in hospital, Oxfordshire County Council said.
Tributes have been pouring in for the two firefighters and Mr Chester.
Daniel Geoghegan, CEO, Bicester Motion said, “The last 24 hours have been tragic in so many ways.
“For the families of those we have lost, the incredible and brave emergency services who have worked tirelessly, our team who has worked relentlessly and the wider Bicester and Oxfordshire community which has shown the most generous support and kindness.
“I wanted to first pay tribute to the three lives that have been lost.
“To Jennie Logan and Martyn Sadler, the two firefighters who so bravely tackled the scene. The epitome of selfless service.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to their families and loved ones. They have gone above and beyond under unprecedented circumstances. No words can ever make up for what has happened, but they are all very much in our hearts.
“And to Dave Chester, who ran Chesters & Sons his family business, who has had a long history with the estate – indeed from man and boy.
He joined us 12 years ago when we first bought the site and, with his wife and two sons, has been a pillar of our whole business community.”
*Correct at time of going to press
