AN early morning blaze which ripped through an apartment block in Newcastle is believed to have been started deliberately.
The fire broke out around 3.40am at the Burrendale Park Road estate in the town after a number of oil tanks at the rear of the flats were set on fire.
One man who was in an upstairs flat was rescued from the burning building by firefighters using a ladder to escort him safely to the ground where he was treated by paramedics.
At the height of the blaze, five fire appliances and 25 firefighters were in attendance. Four flats have been extensively damaged, while an adjoining four properties sustained smoke damage.
Residents whose homes were damaged were taken to the Newcastle Centre where they were met by Housing Executive officials who are in the process of finding them alternative accommodation.
The Fire and Rescue Service’s district commander for Downpatrick, Gerry Lennon, said the quick actions of the firefighters had helped save lives and praised them for a “professional, swift rescue.”
Mr Lennon added: “This fire could have been fatal but for the quick actions of residents who raised the alarm and the professional response of firefighters.”
Newcastle councillor, Willie Clarke, has urged police to apprehend whoever was responsible for the early morning incident at an estate where there have been a number of arson attacks over recent months.
“People at this part of the town are rightly very concerned at this latest incident and tenants have been forced to move out of their homes so close to Christmas through no fault of their own. These incidents must be stopped. The emergency services once again deserve our thanks for their response and ensuring there was no loss of life.
“I would appeal to police to do all they can to apprehend whoever was responsible for this incident and it is a view shared by all the residents at the Burrendale Park Road. Action is needed before someone loses their life,” he added.
Police investigating the blaze have appealed for help to assist them with their enquiries. They are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have noticed any suspicious activity in the Burrendale Park Road area or who has any information which may be of assistance to police to contact officers in Downpatrick on 101.
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