Lucas Campher-Cushing: ‘Mummy, I think the flat is on fire’

Published: 08 July, 2010
by TOM FOOT

HE may be only four years old – but little Lucas Campher-Cushing is already something of a local hero in Belsize Park.

The toddler was on his way home for a bath on Monday evening when he noticed a few wisps of smoke coming from a building in Belsize Park Gardens.

He alerted his mother, Rose, who contacted the fire brigade – minutes before flames tore through the building.

Ms Campher, a psycho- ­­therapist who lives nearby in Belsize Park, said: “Lucas was kind of dancing in the street as we walked home with our little dog Sandy and he said ‘Mummy – there’s a terrible smell’. Then he saw the smoke. 

“I went to the door and rang the bell, but no one was home. 

“People were walking past and didn’t seem too interested at first.”

Three fire engines were dispatched and 15 firefighters brought the blaze under control after 45 minutes.

“There were four wearing gas masks and the smoke was pouring out. The smell was disgusting. In the end, the whole floor was completely destroyed,” said Ms Campher. 

“But it could have been much worse. What struck me was the remarkable calmness of people in Belsize Village.”

The owners of the house, who were cooking in the next door garden flat, did not hear the fire alarm. “The owners were standing there watching with the rest of us. They were so calm,” said Ms Campher. “Normally, in this situation, people would be hysterical and freaking out. I think this story is a wonderful example of the community here.”

“I am so proud of my son. I have brought him up to be very conscious of the environment and to be aware and conscientious about conservation issues. Perhaps the fire brigade should think about setting up some courses for children about fire safety.”

Lucas was at home playing with his dinosaurs and frisbee when the New Journal visited him yesterday (Wednesday).

A spokesman for the London Fire Brigade praised Lucas for raising the alarm, adding: “We were called at 7.05pm. The fire was under control by 8.05pm. 

“A small part of flat damaged. Three fire engines and 15 fire-fighters attended the scene.”