A large crowd stood in disbelief staring at one of the several historic houses in the Upper Valley which was gutted by a fire of unknown origin on Thursday afternoon, February 12.
Officers of the Anguilla Fire and Rescue Services found the house previously owned and occupied by the late former Arts and Crafts Teacher, Iris Hodge and her sister, Marjorie, engulfed in flames. For many years, the property remained unoccupied, but with the present owner, Mr Douglas Woodley, a nephew of the two sisters, residing overseas. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
A Police press release stated: “A number of items, including a bed, clothing and other personal effects, were destroyed – also the wooden rafters, a portion of the eastern wall and the galvanise covering the building… There was also substantial damage to furniture and other antiques in the living room area.
“The Police are appealing to members of the public who may have witnessed any suspicious or unusual activity in or around the said building to contact The Valley Police Station where the number is 497-2333. Persons should ask for the Criminal Investigation Department or to speak with any Police Officer of their choice.”
Meanwhile, Fire Station Officer, Mr Shondell Hodge, has released this reminder to all persons: “Fire safety is very important and our advice to all members of the community is to take extra care to avoid a fire from happening in their homes or workplaces. An important aspect of fire safety is to conduct checks at premises which will enable the occupiers to identify and control any possible fire risk in their areas.”
