Research Forum

"The Clevedon" hotel, sea front, Weston - Fire 1951
published by on Sun, 09/04/2017 - 19:40

Hi, trying to find out any information about "The Clevedon" hotel, sea front, Weston, in particular about a Fire there in October 1951. My grandad was a fireman who was commended for rescuing a girl from the fire. I have a news paper report from the mercury from 10 years later that mentions it via a report on brigade retirements, but I've found nothing more so far.
I would be so great full if anyone could supply any info. Grandads name was Benjamin Marsh.

Comments ..

Submitted by Pat Hase on Mon, 10/04/2017 - 21:49

I think this answers your question - from the Belfast News-Letter - Tuesday 23 October 1951

FIREMAN RESCUED HOTEL MAID

Hung by fingers from window

A Weston-super-Mare fireman rescued a maid in a fire which badly damaged the four-storey Clevedon Hotel, Weston-super- Mare yesterday. The brigade found the roof and top floor blazing fiercely and hanging by her finger tips from the fourth floor window ledge, 40 feet above the ground, was Miss Jean Lewis (16), the maid. She had been trapped in her room. Her cries for help had roused the occupants the hotel. Climbing a pump escape. Leading Fireman B. Marsh brought the girl to the ground. She was taken to hospital suffering from shock and bums around both eyes.

Submitted by on Tue, 11/04/2017 - 19:53

Wow - fantastic detailed info! Many thanks. Does anyone know if the building survives (presumably with a different name) as nothing comes up on my searches.