Leader: 'Firefighter's sacrifice must not be forgotten'

Our thoughts are with his family, and many friends and colleagues, who are helping each other through the terrible pain surrounding the sad landmark date on Monday.

Despite the passage of time, we still know nothing of the circumstances behind the tragedy at the Dalry Road pub. An in-depth investigation involving the police, Health and Safety Executive and the procurator fiscal's office is still ongoing, with ten full- time officers from the police force alone dedicated to the case.

It may seem extraordinary to outside eyes that a year has not been long enough to answer the vital questions in hand.

However, it is impossible for us to know all the potential complexities involved in such an investigation.

Ewan and his fellow firefighters deserve nothing less than the most thorough possible examination of the facts.

In the fullness of time, we will no doubt know what or who caused the fire which had such appalling consequences, and whether or not any lessons can be learned from the tragedy that unfolded.

One thing at least though is already beyond question, and that is the heroism of Ewan and his colleagues who walked into a burning building with no thought for their own safety in order to protect other people.

Their bravery and sacrifice must never be forgotten, for the sake of Ewan and that of his fellow firefighters who continue to put their lives on the line on an almost daily basis.

The Evening News has been campaigning alongside Ewan's friends and colleagues for his courage to be recognised in the most appropriate way, with the award of the Queen's Gallantry Medal.

Our petition is now with the honours committee which advises the Queen on these matters, but you can still help to show the huge level of public support by leaving a message at edinburghnews.com

What could be more fitting than to see the overwhelming display of public respect and admiration echoed by the awarding of this great honour.