VIDEO: Neighbours take in families left homeless in New Malden flat fire (From Kingston Guardian)

VIDEO: Neighbours take in families left homeless in New Malden flat fire

3:38pm Friday 29th June 2012 in News By Nazia Dewji, Reporter

Community spirited neighbours came to the rescue when families were left homeless by a roof blaze.

Six families evacuated from flats in Chestnut Grove, New Malden last night, have been given a place to stay by neighbours.

Insurance companies are trying to find hotels for them to stay at while their homes are repaired.

Polish born Andreg Domitv, 51, lived in one of the flats damaged by the fire with his daughter and her boyfriend.

He said: "We moved here one year ago. It was an empty flat. My daughter bought all the furniture in there.

"It's all gone now. It is very sad. I am happy my neighbour has taken us in. We did not know them. They are very kind."

According to residents the two top flats are the most affected by the fire, believed to have been caused by a blow torch used by plumbers.

A father of two who has lived there for six years, but asked not to be named, said his family were told to grab basic such as toothbrushes and mobile phones before by led away by fire-fighters.

He said: “We don't know when we can go back. We have to wait for the investigation to be completed. We are just waiting for people to let us know.”

Regena Hill, 64, who lives opposite, said she was happy to take in her neighbours even though she had not met them before last night.

The ex-teacher said: "There was a real community spirit here last night with everybody making sure people had somewhere to stay.

"We don't know how long people will be staying. We are trying to make them feel as comfortable as we can.

"It is just what you do. You are supposed to look after your neighbours. We have the space so we can make a difference."

Were you evacuated from the flats? Call the newsdesk on 0208 744 4244.