Members of the local community, friends, family and the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service are mourning the loss of respected firefighter Martin Poynter, 49, who passed away last Wednesday.
Martin served at Newport Fire Station as Watch Manager of Blue Watch and gained the respect of his colleagues and the Island community over the past 30 years, having joined the fire service as a retained firefighter back in 1986 before becoming a wholetime firefighter in 1989.
During his career the gentle giant played an instrumental role within the community safety side of the fire service, leading the LIFE (Local Intervention Fire Education) and Firesetter courses, inspiring many young people across the Island who had been struggling at school, at home or in the community.
Martin’s work led to him being awarded two special commendations including the Chief Fire Officer’s Commendation.
In May last year Martin led his watch to London after they were nominated for ‘Team of the Year’ in the Spirit of Fire Awards 2014. Blue watch were nominated for the work they carried out to help fundraise for and raise the profile of The Firefighters Charity.
He was known for and will be remembered for his infectious smile, humour and strength with a kind heart and time for everybody. Martin was very well known on the cricket circuit having been involved with the Fire Service Sports and Athletics Association cricket section for many years as player, captain and most recently as the manager
Chief Fire Officer of the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, Steve Apter, has, with the deepest sadness, said:
At all times Martin was dedicated to protecting the community, particularly young children when they were at their most needy and vulnerable. His spirit and dedication along with infectious sense of humour and laughter will forever be remembered and missed.
Article continues below this advertisement As an officer, Martin was at all times professional and held in high esteem by his colleagues. His actions at incidents mirrored the greatest traditions of the fire service and his bravery and valour helped his teams support the community when they were at their most vulnerable. He attended a wide range of incidents, not just on the Island but also on the mainland as part of a national team, responding to widespread floods in Doncaster and Hampshire.
Martin was a close friend as much as a colleague and we worked together over many years particularly on Blue Watch when I first joined the service. Martin saved my life when we were involved in a road traffic collision and he never let me forget it!
Martin leaves his wife, Helen, daughter Grace and sons Toby, Harry and Max, sister Claire and parents Roger and Pauline.
Steve Apter added:
Our thoughts are now, and always will be, with the family and colleagues of our much loved friend.
An online book of condolence has been opened in Martin’s memory, to leave a message please click on this link – https://bit.ly/MartinPoynter
Floral tributes have been left outside Newport Fire Station, with the Union Jack lowered to half mast on the training tower overlooking the town in which Martin served and lived.
Martin’s funeral will take place on Wednesday 18th March at 14:00 at Newport Minster with full fire service honours.
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