Chaos at Croydon Nativity Play as Child and Staff Suffer Serious Burns
Flames Break Out During School Christmas Performance
A terrifying incident rocked a Christmas nativity play in Croydon when an eight-year-old child’s costume suddenly burst into flames. The blaze tore through the school play being held at Our Lady of the Annunciation Church on Bingham Road, leaving the child with serious burns.
Staff from Thomas Becket School, who were helping put out the fire, also suffered burn injuries. Both a man and a woman who rushed to save the youngster needed hospital treatment alongside the child. The boy was even airlifted to hospital after flames engulfed his costume within seconds.
Children and Parents in Tears as Fire Erupts
A parent who witnessed the horror described how children were carrying candles during the performance when one child accidentally fell into another pupil, igniting the costume instantly. “Children were in tears and parents were screaming,” the shocked mum recalled, refusing to be named.
Police and emergency services rushed to the scene shortly after 2.21pm on Wednesday, December 11. The area around the church has since been cordoned off by Met Officers as investigations continue.
Police Confirm Serious Burns to Child, Minor Injuries to Adult
A Met Police spokesperson confirmed: “Officers are assisting with an incident at a Croydon church. Police were called by London Ambulance Service at 2.21pm to Our Lady of the Annunciation Church after a young boy suffered serious burns during a Christmas event.”
“One adult was also reported to have received burn injuries, though these are not believed to be serious,” they added.
This terrifying incident has cast a shadow over what should have been a joyful Christmas celebration for Thomas Becket School children and their families.
