Firework theory on Whitchurch house fire

A Whitchurch family was forced to flee their home after a rogue firework apparently smashed into the conservatory of the property sparking a blaze.

Homeowner Debbie Ingall was putting her son to bed when she spotted flames at the window, and quickly raised the alarm.

The family escaped uninjured from the house in Wharfage, Whitchurch, but severe damage was caused to the kitchen, conservatory, roof and bedrooms. Some damage was also caused to neighbouring properties.

The fire broke out at about 9.30pm on Saturday and the family believe it was caused by a stray firework.

Miss Ingall said she was shocked by the incident, but was thankful no-one was injured. She said: "I was in the house with my two sons, boyfriend and mum and dad.

"I went to put one of my sons to bed and could see flames. I could see the conservatory roof on fire. We got out of the house and knocked on our neighbour's doors to tell them what was happening.

"Thankfully I put my son to bed when I did, otherwise I don't know what would have happened.

"It has caused part of the roof to cave in. I don't know what caused it. I presume it was a firework."

Simon Griffiths, crew manager at Whitchurch Fire Station, said: "The house was so badly damaged it has been really hard to find a cause."