Hero Headteacher Saves Boy Set Ablaze at Croydon Christmas Carol Concert
A seven-year-old boy is fighting for his life after being engulfed in flames at a Christmas carol concert in Croydon. The child suffered horrific burns when a falling candle set fire to his costume during the festive event.
Horror at School Carol Service
The tragedy unfolded around 2pm yesterday at a church performance for children from Thomas Becket Catholic Primary School. Parents heard a man shouting, “My son!” as chaos erupted.
Children had been given candles to hold during the carol singing when one candle fell onto the boy’s costume. Within seconds, he was ablaze.
“The kids were walking around with candles when one of the eight-year-olds bumped into this pupil. That set fire to his costume, which was completely engulfed in seconds,” said a horrified eyewitness.
Headteacher Becomes Instant Hero
St Thomas Becket’s headteacher, Noel Campbell, sprang into action. Using his bare hands, he and another staff member raced to smother the flames and save the boy.
A mum at the scene, just two rows away, said: “The head’s a hero. I watched him trying to put out the flames with his bare hands. He’d do anything for the students. We’re all really gutted, especially so close to Christmas. I hope the little lad will be okay.”
She added how another child ran off screaming, clearly traumatised by the fiery accident.
Ongoing Investigation and Support
The injured boy remains in a specialist burns unit, while a man and woman are also being treated for less serious burns.
Police have cordoned off Our Lady of the Annunciation Church in Addiscombe, launching a full investigation.
The school released a statement: “Our whole school community is devastated by the incident at our carol service. Our thoughts and prayers are with the child and his family. Pupils, staff, and families are receiving support.”
The Archdiocese of Southwark also expressed their condolences: “We pray for the child, those injured, their families, and the community. We are fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation.”
Emergency Response Details
The London Ambulance Service confirmed they sent two ambulance crews, an emergency responder, a medic in a car, and an incident response officer to the scene. A trauma team from London’s Air Ambulance was also deployed.
A joint inquiry by the London Fire Brigade and police, on behalf of the Health and Safety Executive, continues.
