‘Too close for comfort’ – Gosport residents react to suspected arson attack

The fire took place in Parham Road just before midnight on Wednesday (April 14). Fire crews from Gosport Fareham and Portchester were scrambled to tackle the blaze.

Jane Ware, 48, who lives two doors from the suspected attack, said: ‘It’s a bit too close to my home for comfort. Whatever the cause it’s worrying when there is a fire so close to your home.

‘I went to bed early with a migraine. I woke up to hear shouting and when I saw the flashing blue lights I thought it must be the police dealing with people fighting.

‘When I looked out of the window I saw smoke coming out of the building and realised it was a fire. Once I saw the Fire Service had arrived I was not too concerned about it spreading.’

Other neighbours had also been woken by the flashing blue lights and the sound of sirens.

One couple said: ‘When I looked out of the window I could see the flames. The reflection in the window made it look like they were really close to our house – it was really scary.

‘Once the firefighters had brought the fire under control they said we were okay to stay. They were very efficient and did a great job’.

Another neighbour who also asked to remain anonymous added: ‘I looked across the road and could see flames coming out of the house. I went outside to see if I could help people out of the house.

‘It’s quite scary when something like this happens on your doorstep.’

SEE ALSO: Two guinea pigs rescued from Gosport flat fire by Hampshire firefighters

A spokesman for Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service said: ‘All persons were soon accounted for and the fire was out on arrival with tactical ventilation and breathing apparatus used for smoke clearance.

‘The casualties were treated at the scene by South Central Ambulance Service for smoke inhalation.’

On Wednesday afternoon firefighters were called to a flat fire in The Redan in Gosport, which saw several residents in the area evacuated. An investigation into the cause of that blaze is continuing.

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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