A late night blaze at a block of flats in Glasgow has left dozens of residents homeless.
At least seven people – including three children – were taken to hospital after fire broke out in the building in Elder Street, Govan.
Residents on the top floor spoke of their terror that they could be caught up in a tragedy similar to the Grenfell tower block fire in London which killed at least 80 people.
Four fire engines rushed to the scene to tackle the blaze which began in the close area at ten past midnight on Saturday morning.
The cause of the fire has not been confirmed but police are treating it as wilful fire raising and have appealed for information.
Fifteen people were rescued by fire fighters and seven people, including three children, were taken to Queen Elizabeth University Hospital suffering from smoke inhalation.
Claire Richardson, 32, lives on the top floor of the building and had to wake her young daughter so they could escape the blaze.
She said: “It was scary. It was late at night, my daughter was in bed. The fact that it was started on purpose makes you wonder what is going through people’s heads, especially with everything that’s been happening with Grenfell.”
Susan Miller, 43, lives on the second floor of the building and was discharged from hospital around midday on Saturday after receiving treatment.
She said: “When I opened the door I felt the heat and the amount of smoke beat me back. This is the second time I’ve been in my flat when a fire has started. The first was in Iona Court, that’s in Govan as well, and now this, it’s just so scary.”
Police confirmed that residents will not be able to return to their home for some time and that the incident is now being dealt with by Govan Housing Association, but an official at the scene declined to comment.
Tenants were allowed to briefly re-enter the building yesterday afternoon to pack suitcases, and were told they will be put up in a hotel for the weekend.
Police are appealing to anyone with information to contact them on 101.
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