Arson attack on pensioner's flat

By Rebecca Sheppard

AN elderly, vulnerable woman is facing the prospect of losing her home after an arson attack destroyed her flat.

The 77-year-old woman's home in Bader Close, Ipswich, was set alight at about 11.15am yesterday.

Suffolk police have now launched an investigation to find the people responsible for setting fire to the ground floor flat and are treating the incident as arson endangering life.

The woman, who has not been named, had just left her flat to catch a bus when a neighbour smelt smoke coming from inside.

When she went to investigate, she saw smoke billowing out of the flat and alerted the fire brigade, which in turn contacted the police.

Police are treating the cause of the fire as suspicious and appealed for information. The blaze caused extensive damage to the flat and the pensioner will have to be rehoused.

Detective Constable Steve Clarke, of Suffolk police, said yesterday: “This was a terrible offence that has resulted in a vulnerable old lady losing her home.

“I need to talk with anyone who was in the Bader Close area this morning who has information about who may be responsible.

“I would especially like to hear from two youths that the victim saw near to the home when she left this morning as they may have information that would be invaluable to this inquiry.”

Emmanuel Lynch, a community caretaker who carries out patrols of the flats, said there had been problems there and people had targeted the victim, who has lived there for about eight years.

He added: “I really feel sorry for her as she should really be in sheltered accommodation, but she does not want to move.

“They do not like to force her out as a lot of times it can be very traumatic and stressful for them. My heart goes out to her.”

Anyone with information should contact Ipswich police on 01473 613500.

rebecca.sheppard@eadt.co.uk