A devastating fire at a block of flats on Marigold Street in Frome, Somerset, has left residents displaced and uncertain about their homes. Chloe Raeburn, 25, was among those evacuated after a blaze consumed the roof of one flat and forced nine apartments to be vacated on Wednesday, December 3.
Chloe was at her neighbour’s place when alarms first sounded. Initially thinking it was a minor cooking accident, they soon realized the severity as smoke and flames appeared. “We looked outside and saw fire coming from the flat,” she recalls. Both neighbours quickly called emergency services.
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service responded with three to five fire engines, working for almost 45 minutes to extinguish the flames. Smoke lingered for several hours afterward, preventing residents from returning. Ambulances, paramedics, police, and Selwood Housing staff were all present to support those affected. Selwood, which owns the building on Edmund Park Estate, arranged temporary accommodation, including rooms at The George Hotel in Frome.
READ MORE: 45 Affordable Homes Approved Near Major Somerset Quarry
READ MORE: Yeovil Dunelm Store Set to Reopen After Fire
Chloe described the smoke as overwhelming, making her nearly vomit when she briefly attempted to enter her own flat before evacuating. “It wasn’t a fun experience at all. The situation has affected me emotionally and possibly physically, though I haven’t had a medical check-up yet,” she said.
As a photographer, Chloe values her personal belongings deeply, especially cherished photos of her late mother. The uncertainty over the condition of her flat has been emotionally distressing. “I’ve broken down several times alone because I don’t want others to see me like that,” she shared. “The fire was contained to certain flats, so hopefully the smoke damage is limited, but there’s always a chance that it has ruined things.”
The tragedy comes just weeks before Christmas, adding to the emotional strain. “It’s bad timing. We’ll need to support each other and take time to heal—it’s not something you get over overnight.”
Fire services and Selwood Housing confirmed the fire was accidental, caused by a candle being left unattended. The flat where the fire started was destroyed by flames, smoke, and water damage, with the flat below suffering significant heat and water damage as well. One resident was treated for smoke inhalation.
Selwood Housing emphasized their ongoing support for affected residents as structural engineers and loss adjusters assess the damage. “We’re in regular contact with those impacted to determine when it might be safe to return,” said group operations director Verena Buchanan.
While residents remain in temporary housing, the focus is on recovery and rebuilding, with the hope of returning home as soon as possible.