A fundraiser has been launched for 6 families, including children and pensioners, displaced by last weekend’s flat fire in Ryde, who are now being supported by a local charity.
The Veterans Hub Isle of Wight has stepped in to help those affected by Saturday’s devastating blaze at Solent House on Garfield Road, with temporary accommodation being provided at The Veteran pub and hotel on Ryde Esplanade.
The local not-for-profit organisation has launched a crowdfunding appeal to help cover the cost of essentials, clothing, food and accommodation for those who have been left unable to return to their homes due to fire damage.
Donations of clothes, food and personal items are also being accepted at The Veteran Hotel for those wishing to offer practical support.
Islanders wishing to donate can do so at www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/helping-the-garfield-road-fire-victims.
The appeal comes as Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary has confirmed that the fire is being investigated as suspected arson, but no arrests have yet been made 3 days after the incident.
As previously reported by Island Echo, the blaze broke out in a communal stairwell at the block of flats shortly before 13:00 on Saturday, prompting a major emergency response. It is thought a matress – that residents had complained about – was set on fire.
Members of the public shopping in nearby Ryde High Street reported hearing 2 loud bangs before windows and debris began falling from the building, with thick black smoke billowing into the sky.
Fire crews from Newport, Shanklin, Cowes, Sandown, Ventnor and Ryde were mobilised, alongside an aerial ladder platform, as firefighters battled the fire.
At the height of the incident, smoke could be seen for miles, with firefighters using specialist equipment to pull apart sections of the roof to reach hotspots and allow smoke to escape.
Fortunately, all residents and their pets were safely evacuated and accounted for, with no injuries reported.
