Homes on Gorleston Road, next to Daisy Farm Park in Highters Heath, were devastated by a fire that broke out on August 13 opposite the popular children's park near Maypole. Dramatic pictures show the houses engulfed in flames, with many residents evacuated from the area.
Evacuations and shelter
Warstock Community Centre was opened to offer shelter to those affected by the fire. Emergency services advised all nearby residents to keep their windows and doors firmly closed to avoid smoke inhalation. People were also asked to avoid the area where possible to allow emergency vehicles clear access to the scenes.
Wider context of fires across the West Midlands
These homes are not the only ones wrecked by fire in the past 24 hours in the West Midlands. A Major Incident has been declared by West Midlands Fire Service in Stourbridge, where 40 acres of land have been ablaze for hours. Additional fires have been reported in Oldbury, Willenhall, Tamworth, Evesham, and Pershore.
West Midlands Ambulance Service reported that 54 patients were treated in fires across the region, as detailed in a full statement. The service is continuing to respond to multiple blazes, with several injured in the battle to put them out.
Impact on the community
The fire at Daisy Farm Park has left local residents shaken, with many forced to leave their homes. The community centre has been set up to provide temporary accommodation and support. Emergency services are urging people to remain vigilant and follow safety advice as the situation develops.
The full extent of the damage to the properties on Gorleston Road is yet to be assessed, but the pictures show the houses were severely damaged. Authorities have not yet confirmed the cause of the fire, but investigations are likely to follow.
