Residents stranded after fire evacuations

Residents of a block of flats on Marigold Road in Frome are facing the possibility of spending the Christmas period away from home after a fire swept through their building on Wednesday night. Nine households have been relocated to temporary hotel accommodation while authorities assess the situation.

Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported, and an investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of the blaze. Selwood Housing, which owns the affected properties, stated that it is currently "difficult to predict" when the residents will be able to return, and they are developing a plan for longer-term housing solutions.

Jessica Nutley, a tenant who moved into the block in 2022, said she is arranging alternative plans for the holiday season but feels "disheartened" at the thought of missing Christmas at home. She has also been helping to organize basic necessities for her neighbors.

The Fair Frome Foodbank has been providing essential items such as toothpaste, shampoo, and food. Coordinator Lenka Grimes described the situation as "terrible," noting that some residents have lost all their possessions. She added that the recovery process will be lengthy due to the building's poor condition, but emphasized that the community is eager to assist those affected.

Verena Buchanan, group operations director at Selwood Housing, highlighted the "significant damage" to the block and confirmed that a structural engineer will inspect the site to determine the buildings safety. She reiterated that the nine families are facing a challenging period of uncertainty, and that the organization is collaborating with local authorities to explore both medium- and long-term solutions.

Author: Noah Whitman