Neighbours rescue resident after fire in Downton bungalow

Firefighters from Salisbury, Amesbury and Cranborne with support from crews from Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service, including firefighters from Fordingbridge and Ringwood, were called to reports of a house fire in Castle Meadow, Downton at around 12.25pm (December 25).

Dorset Fire and Rescue Service says on arrival firefighters found a serious fire in the front room of a bungalow which was venting through the roof of the property.

PICTURE: Fordingbridge Fire Station Twitter 

The cause of the fire is believed to be accidental.

Group manager Katie Cornhill, the fire investigation officer at this incident, said: “The most probable cause appears to be accidental. The elderly resident of the property was led to safety by neighbours who heard the smoke alarm activating.

"The occupant of the premises was cared for by ambulance service colleagues on the scene. We would never advise anyone to go into a fire before we arrive, but on this occasion the neighbours were lucky to be able to help the resident and we are very grateful for that.”

PICTURE: Ringwood Fire Station Twitter 

Firefighters left the scene at 1.35pm but returned to the property at 6.30pm to reinspect the incident scene.

The fire service is urging residents to ensure they have smoke alarms and recommends having them on every level of their home. They should also be tested regularly. For more go to dwfire.org.uk

PICTURE: Ringwood Fire Station Twitter

A fundraising campaign to help those affected by the fire has been set up the Wiltshire 999s website.

The GoFundMe page has surpassed the £1,000 target - raising £1,290 so far.