A fire that damaged homes, gardens and vehicles on John Bends Way in Parson Drove near Wisbech on Thursday afternoon was caused by hot ashes placed in a wheelie bin, according to one of the residents affected.
Charlotte Bessey, whose property and cars were damaged, said the blaze started when an elderly neighbour disposed of hot ashes improperly. The fire then spread to an oil tank, neighbouring gardens, and her home.
“Everything will be replaced — doors, windows and fencing — and insurance will deal with the car,” Ms Bessey said. “We’re just thankful everyone is OK.”
Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue crews from Wisbech, March, and the north roaming fire engine attended the incident at 3.43pm. Firefighters initially reported a car on fire spreading to nearby gardens and houses, describing the cause as accidental.
Crews worked with hose reels to extinguish the flames and returned to their stations by 5.40pm.
The clarification from Ms Bessey comes as a reminder of the importance of accurate reporting in local incidents and the risks associated with disposing of hot ashes.
