Hethersett woman dies after fire in sheltered housing complex
Emergency services at Woodcote sheltered housing complex in Hethersett after the fire in one of the residents home. PHOTO BY SIMON FINLAY - Credit: SIMON FINLAY
Norfolk Police have confirmed the death of an elderly woman after a fire in her flat in Hethersett.
While the woman's identity has not yet been released by police, her next-of-kin have been informed.
It is believed she was in her 80s.
An investigation was today continuing into the cause of a blaze, which occurred just before 7pm last night at the Woodcote complex, in Firs Road.
More than 20 firefighters from Hethersett, Carrow, Wymondham, and Earlham fire stations, were called to the scene.
Station manager Scott Norman, from Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service, said: 'There was a well-developed fire and we had to rescue a lady from a flat in the sheltered accommodation.
'It is testament to the speed and efficiency of the crews that we had carried her out within seconds.
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'The crews did a fantastic job of giving her the very best chance of survival.'
Mr Norman said an alarm at the complex had alerted the service to the blaze. He said investigators from the service, along with police, would now establish what started the fire.
The woman's home was the only one affected by the fire, but firefighters gave reassurance to the other tenants at the 56-flat complex, run by Broadland Housing Association.
The EDP has, through our Save Our Stations campaign, called for Norfolk County Council not to close fire stations or cut cover. Political leaders have indicated they intend to abandon proposed cuts, but a final decision will be made on Monday, when the authority sets its budget.
Do you owe a debt of gratitude to the work of firefighters? Call reporter Dan Grimmer on 01603 772375 or email dan.grimmer@archant.co.uk
