Council works with community to support residents affected in fatal fire in Tilehurst

Support is being offered for all those affected by a major fire in Reading on December 15 (Wednesday).

The fire was reported at Rowe Court, a block of flats on the east side of Tilehurst, at 2.56am.

It resulted in the death of one person as well as two people still reported as missing.

Three people were taken to hospital to be treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

Ambulance crews treated eight people on the scene and a number were evacuated to be cared for by the local authority and its partners.

The next of kin of those reported missing continue to be supported by specialist officers from Thames Valley Police.

A man has since been charged with murder and arson with intent to endanger life. He has been remanded in custody and appeared at Reading Crown Court on December 21 (Tuesday).

Thames Valley Police local area commander for Reading Superintendent Steve Raffield said: “This has been an extremely distressing time for so many people, and our thoughts remain firmly with all those affected by this horrific incident, especially the families, friends and loved ones of those reported missing."

Donations of support have since come in from across the Reading community for residents displaced by the fire.

The council is also aware of other organisations across Reading who are fundraising or being given donations and has said that it will work with those groups to ensure donations reach those affected.

Leader of Reading Borough Council Jason Brock said: “The local community - indeed Reading as a whole - remains in shock at this horrific fire, which somehow feels even more distressing coming as it did just a few days before Christmas.

“This is a corner of town just off the busy Oxford Road and is a place where the sense of community is strong.

“I have little doubt that will shine through, as it already is, in the difficult days, weeks and months to come.”

He added: “Everybody’s thoughts in Reading remain with those who have been affected the most, and with their families.

“Reading has again responded with warmth and generosity in the face of adversity, with offers of help from within the community affected and across the town.

“I thank everybody for their generosity and their support for our emergency service colleagues.”

At this time financial donations, rather than physical donations, have been identified as the best means by which to support the residents affected.

People can make a financial donation online at a dedicated webpage set up for this appeal at https://www.reading.gov.uk/rowecourt.

The council will ensure the donations reach affected residents at the appropriate time.

Reading Borough Council continues to support the local community and its contact centre is available 24/7 to provide support on 0118 937 3787.