Seven-Year-Old Set Ablaze by Falling Candle at Croydon Christmas Carol Service
A seven-year-old boy is fighting for his life after his costume caught fire during a school Christmas carol concert in Croydon. The horrifying incident unfolded at around 2pm yesterday at Our Lady of the Annunciation Church, leaving the child with serious burns.
Terrifying Accident During Festive Event
Children from Thomas Becket Catholic Primary School were holding candles as part of their performance when a burning candle fell onto the boy’s costume. The flames quickly engulfed him in seconds.
“The kids were walking around with candles when one of the eight-year-olds accidentally fell into the boy in front. That set fire to his costume, which was completely engulfed in seconds,” said a horrified parent.
The boy was airlifted to a specialist hospital with serious burns. Two adults, a man and a woman, also suffered less severe burns and are receiving treatment.
Headteacher Praised as Hero in Fiery Rescue
Noel Campbell, head of St Thomas Becket Catholic School, rushed to the scene alongside staff and used his bare hands to put out the flames. Parents at the church called him a hero for saving the child’s life.
“The head’s a hero. I watched him trying to put out the flames with his bare hands. He would do anything for the students. We are all really gutted, especially so close to Christmas,” said a parent who witnessed the ordeal just two rows away.
Police have cordoned off the church as they continue their investigation into the incident.
Community Mourns and Supports the Victims
The school released a statement expressing devastation over the accident:
“Our whole school community is devastated by the incident that occurred at our carol service yesterday. Our thoughts and prayers are with the child and his family at this difficult time. Following this incident, pupils, staff and families are being given support.”
The Archdiocese of Southwark also commented:
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the child and those injured, their families, and the school and parish community. The Archdiocese and school involved are cooperating fully with the ongoing investigation.”
Emergency crews, including London’s Air Ambulance trauma team, responded quickly. A joint investigation by the London Fire Brigade, police, and the Health and Safety Executive is now underway.
