A firefighter stood and watched in horror as his own house burnt down.
Simon Ruffle was soon to move into the his near-complete dream house he had built himself in Tillingham, with girlfriend Kate Banham.
But a villager called him at his current address in North Weald to break the news and he rushed to the scene.
Published Thursday November 7, 2002
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article