Costessey rallies around Sunny Close family after house fire

Fire crews were called to Sunny Close, Costessey, around 8pm yesterday and were ripping roof tiles off to improve their access to the flames, remaining at the scene until 3.30am.

It is understood that the home's occupants managed to escape the blaze but their pet dog died after attempting to hide from the smoke and heat.

The fire broke out around 8pm in Sunny Close, Costessey (Image: Lee Johnson)

Eyewitnesses also reported that a man was taken to hospital but his current condition is unknown.

Karen Burton shared this newspaper's report of the fire on Facebook and wrote: "Last night didn't go to plan. 

"Gutted but at least we got out, unfortunately, I can't say the same for our poor dog.

"Many thanks to all those who have offered support.

"Our room is in the loft and was hit the most."

Images of the gutted home show the fire was mostly confined to the upper floors, with roof tiles strewn over the front drive. 

The first floor and attic were completely gutted by fire, with roof tiles thrown onto the driveway (Image: Newsquest)

Neighbours Margaret and Brian Kemp, who have lived in Sunny Grove for 27 years, described the fear and confusion of the evening.  

"It was terrible," Margaret said.

"The flames were coming straight over into the garden and the smoke was black.

"We were home at the time and went outside to look but we had to go in again as it was unbearable.

Margaret and Brian Kemp said the smoke billowing from the home was unbearable (Image: Newsquest)

"At first we thought someone was having a bonfire but then realised where it was coming from.

"I don't know the family too well but I feel so sorry for them."

Fellow Sunny Grove resident Hazel shared their sympathies and said: "It was very, very smoky. 

"I had my windows closed to keep the heat out but it was so thick and black, I thought 'Oh my god somewhere's on fire'."

Fire crews present at the home around 10am this morning (Image: Newsquest)

Monday was one of the hottest days of the year so far, topping 26C in the city. 

"It was very scary. Poor people," Hazel added.

As well as the Burton family's pet dog, cherished items including a prom dress were also lost, prompting Costessey district councillor Gary Blundell to launch a fundraiser for the family which has already raised more than £900. 

Costessey councillor Gary Blundell has voiced his support and launched a fundraiser for the family (Image: Costessey Town Council)

He said: "This was a terrible and unfortunate accident. 

"The whole of Costessey is rallying behind them in this time of trouble because that's what they do."

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Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service is investigating the cause of the fire which is believed to have started on the first floor and spread to the roof, igniting the solar panels. 

A spokesman said: "Three appliances and an aerial ladder platform initially responded to the incident and used a platform and ladders, breathing apparatus and hose reels to extinguish the fire and prevent fire spread to adjacent properties.

Fire crews battled the blaze in Costessey (Image: Supplied)

"Crews remained on scene throughout the night to damp down and control hot spots.

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"Our thoughts are with the family involved at this time. One person was treated at the scene by the ambulance service who worked closely with fire crews to resolve the incident.

"Crews returned today [Tuesday] to provide the community with fire prevention advice and provide reassurance to the local residents."

The police and ambulance services have also been approached for comment.