Blaze devastation revealed

THE damage caused by a fire that severely damaged a couple’s home has been revealed in shocking new images.

The blaze ripped though Lindsey and Darren Barton’s home in Mitchell Terrace, Ilkeston, at around 6am on Sunday – just hours after they had celebrated their wedding reception.

They fled to safety with their four children.

Twenty-five firefighters tackled the blaze, which started in the house next door.

Precious belongings, including Mrs Barton’s wedding dress, were destroyed.

These photographs were taken by workers assessing the damage.

Mrs Barton said: “We’re devastated. Every single room has been virtually destroyed. The roof upstairs has caved in. It’s such a terrible situation.

“We can’t believe how bad it is. We knew the upstairs was in a very bad state but it’s worse than we first thought. It’s terrible.

“We have no idea what will happen now. We’re staying with family.

“The firefighters had to use a lot of water to calm the flames down and that saved even more damage but the water has caused big problems.”

The family were woken by their smoke alarm and had to leave the house in just the clothes they were wearing.

Firefighters managed to salvage a few items and Mrs Barton added: “We’re thankful to the firefighters for what they did.”

The couple celebrated their wedding reception the night before the blaze struck after marrying in Greece earlier this month.