Leigh Park fire prompts praise for fire crews and community support from Wellow Close residents

Crews were called Wellow Close just 4pm on Sunday, as a fire spread from one home to the roofs of three other terraced houses.

The fire – which appears to have badly damaged the roofs of at least three homes – has prompted donations of more than 60 bags filled with clothes, food, and essentials for the stricken families.

Neighbours who have spoken to the affected residents believe the support has been much appreciated – but a little overwhelming as they deal with repairs and insurance claims.

One resident, who has lived in the cul-de-sac for two years and asked not to be named, said: ‘It’s frustrating reading messages online because the generosity is lovely, but maybe it’s best to wait.

‘There have been a lot of donations.

‘I have asked if they need anything and they said they were fine.

‘We are a close knit cul-de-sac so if they needed anything we would be able to help.

‘They have enough on their plate at the moment and they are inundated with calls and it’s a really nice gesture, but I think they are a bit bit overwhelmed.’

The Havant resident also praised the fire crews for their response to the emergency, with more than 20 firefighters from stations across the area battling the blaze until 9pm.

The resident added: ‘They were great.

‘I was worried that it was going to move over to our block.

‘I’ve seen a lot of rumours, but we still don’t know what caused the fire.’

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Another resident also praised the fire service and the community, saying that some of the affected families were still processing the shocking incident and the outpouring of support.

Jade Cowlishaw, who has lived in the street for five years, said: ‘I’m not sure they are aware of a lot of the support that’s out there. (Some of the families) don’t have Facebook.

‘We do find that around here everyone chips in.

‘We were out making tea for everyone. There’s only so much you can do.

She added: ‘The firefighters were great – they had it under control and didn’t leave us worried at all.’

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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