Firefighters and community members gathered on December 12 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the devastating Worsley Hotel fire in Clifton Gardens, which tragically claimed seven lives, including a firefighter, and left others injured.
The tragedy remains one of the darkest days in London’s firefighting history.
Remembering the Victims
The fire, caused by deliberate arson, took the lives of six hotel residents and one firefighter, Hamish Pettit, a 25-year-old from Rochester, Kent, who died heroically while attempting to rescue others. Among the deceased were:
- Patrick Dermitte, 17, a waiter from France.
- Wilfredo Lacap, 36, a porter from The Philippines.
- Basdeobora Loakanadah, 23, a trainee manager from Mauritius.
- John Lloyd, 22, a trainee manager from Sway, Hampshire, UK.
- Edward Simpson, 64, a porter from the UK.
- Ettore Luigi Vincon, 22, an assistant cook from Pinerolo, Italy.
The victims were remembered during a solemn ceremony, with representatives of the London Fire Brigade (LFB) laying wreaths at a memorial site.
A Hero’s Legacy
Hamish Pettit, part of the LFB’s Red Watch, was honored with a Red Plaque, a tribute to firefighters who lose their lives in the line of duty. His sacrifice remains a poignant symbol of courage and dedication.
Firefighters’ Response
On the night of the fire, 40 fire engines responded to the scene as flames engulfed the building. While firefighters rescued 32 people, the operation turned deadly when upper floors collapsed, trapping crew members under burning debris. In addition to Pettit’s death, two firefighters sustained severe burns, and one suffered a serious back injury.
A Tragedy That Changed Fire Safety
The Worsley Hotel fire served as a wake-up call, prompting changes in fire safety regulations and building standards across London. These reforms have since improved the safety of hotels and other public spaces.
Reflections at the Anniversary
During the commemoration, LFB Commissioner Andy Roe reflected on the bravery of the firefighters who responded that night:
“The Worsley Hotel fire is a stark reminder of the dangers our firefighters face every day. We honor Hamish Pettit and the other victims by continuing to improve safety and preparedness in their memory.”
Community members, survivors, and retired firefighters also attended the event, sharing stories of resilience and loss.
Continuing the Legacy
The Worsley Hotel fire remains an enduring chapter in London’s history—a reminder of both the risks faced by firefighters and the importance of vigilance in fire safety. Through annual remembrances and ongoing reforms, the legacy of those lost lives on.
