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A firework factory owner has been convicted of manslaughter following an explosion that claimed the lives of two firefighters.

Martin Winter, 52, was “grossly negligent” after leaving fireworks in an unlicensed metal container that he knew could explode if a blaze broke out in his family-run farm in Shortgate, East Sussex.

Firefighter Geoff Wicker and Support Officer Brian Wembridge, who had over 70 years experience between them, were killed in the blast three years ago, which also injured 20 other people.

The metal container was being used to house fireworks before being shipped to the Middle East, the court heard during the trial. Prosecutors argued that Mr Winter was aware of the hazards posed by housing such fireworks in a metal container, which was not authorised by the company's licence.

Following a Crown Court trial this week, Mr Winter was convicted of manslaughter, as well as health and safety breaches, after defence lawyers failed to convince the courts that the firemen should have been aware of the dangers prior to their deaths.

Mr Winter’s son, Nathan Winter, who also helped run Alpha Fireworks, is still awaiting judgement for his role in the deaths and is expected to be sentenced this week.

The result of sentencing was Martin Winter got 7 years and Nathan Winter got 5 years imprisonment, the company was fined £30,000.