Need to know
'We're damn lucky' say Birmingham residents left reeling from August wildfire
A month on from the Gorleston Road fire, Warstock residents are still coming to terms with the devastation as the cause remains under investigation by West Midlands Fire Service
Warstock residents are still coming to terms with the devastating fire that tore through their south Birmingham neighbourhood on August 13, destroying six homes and ravaging back gardens near Daisy Farm Park.
Tina Hickin, 74, was among those forced to evacuate as flames spread along garden fences. "I still can't believe it, I'm still in shock," she said, adding: "We're very lucky we've still got a house."
The blaze left a trail of destruction, with scorched gardens, charred remains of homes, and obliterated roofs serving as painful reminders of that terrifying day. One anonymous resident described seeing a "50 foot ball of flame" and said the noise was like a "vacuum that was sucking up the oxygen".
Jennifer Bartleet, 71, said there were scenes of "mayhem" as the fire reached her back garden, destroying a shed containing her grandchildren's toys. She praised community support but called for permanent fencing, saying: "I just feel like I'm in a fish pond."
Paul Smith, 70, revealed their pet rabbit died possibly from shock and their cat went missing after the fire. He said flames tore through garden fences like an "express line" and criticised the council's communication about ongoing support.
Birmingham City Council has promised to replace all damaged fencing, with permanent work due to begin in September 2026. The authority is providing temporary fencing, overnight security patrols, and financial support including council tax relief and supermarket vouchers.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation by West Midlands Fire Service, with the council planning to review grounds maintenance operations to prevent future incidents.
READ THE FULL STORY: Wrecked homes, lost pets and new fears - inside Birmingham road still reeling from 'devastating' fire
