Fire service reveals cause of village blaze which killed man in his 60s

A fire in a Leicestershire village which claimed a man’s life was started accidentally, Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) have revealed.

The blaze broke out in a home in Main Street, Newton Burgoland, near Ashby, at around 8.30pm on June 1.

The occupant, a man in his 60s, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Initial reports suggested there had been an explosion.

A police cordon remained in place at the property until June 3 while scenes of crime and fire investigation officers carried out enquiries.

LFRS say the blaze is believed to have been caused by a leak from the gas fire.

A LFRS spokesperson said: “Fire appliances from Coalville, Castle Donington, Hinckley and the city’s Central and Southern Fire Stations attended the incident, and were supported by Leicestershire Police and East Midlands Ambulance Service.

“The incident was dealt with quickly by firefighters but unfortunately the occupant was pronounced dead at the scene.

“The fire is believed to have been caused accidentally by a leak from the gas fire.

"This is a terrible tragedy and our thoughts are with the family, friends and acquaintances of the deceased.”

Fire service staff will be in the village from June 14 until June 16 providing reassurance and advice on home fire safety in a bid to prevent any future similar incidents.

Firefighters will also be offering home safety checks to residents.

The spokesperson added: “It is essential that everyone stays safe from fire in their properties.

“We would like to encourage all residents in the neighbourhood to take advantage of this opportunity, to familiarise themselves with what to do in the event of a fire, but more importantly, how they can prevent fires happening in the first place.”

As well as firefighters from local stations knocking on doors in the village, firefighters, North West Leicestershire District Council and Leicestershire Police will also be running a drop-in centre for residents to talk about any concerns they may have.

It will be held at the Belper Arms, Main Street, Newton Burgoland, from 9am-1pm on June 15.