Making a house a home

AFTER . . . (from left) Clifford Benjamin, Stephen Legg, Stephen Keogh and James Fleming

AFTER nine months of heartache and struggle following a devastating fire at his home, one Oldhamer has a smile on his face again thanks to a local businessman who came to his rescue.

James Fleming feared he would become homeless after his home on Furness Avenue, Alt, was severely damaged by a fire.

The 65-year-old lost all his possessions in the blaze in September, last year.

His three pet cats also perished.

Mr Fleming spent eight months in temporary accommodation at Werneth Lodge while repairs were carried out.

However, when he was told by First Choice Homes Oldham (FCHO) he could move back into the property, he found the home "unlivable".

The former labourer worried that the conditions of the home, which was left without carpets and furniture, and with black, smoke damaged walls, would make his health issues, asthma and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) worse if urgent renovations were not carried out.

FCHO, who arranged for temporary accommodation and support following the fire, advised Mr Fleming that it was a tenant's responsibility to carry out redecorating and other work following a fire, something Mr Fleming knew he would struggle with.

After reading Mr Fleming's story in the Chronicle, local businessman Clifford Benjamin jumped to his aid.

Mr Benjamin offered to carry out repairs and redecorate at the fire-damaged property to enable Mr Fleming to remain in his home worry free.

Mr Fleming said: "I couldn't carry out the work for myself due to my health, otherwise I would have done.

"When I got the call from Clifford about an offer to help me out I was gobsmacked.

"My faith in human nature went up ten-fold.

"It shows that people will still act and want to help when they see people in trouble."

The team, from Select Services, who provide property services for landlords and letting agents, have been on site throughout the week painting the rooms, carrying out repairs and improving the home to ensuring it is homely again.

Mr Benjamin said: "When I read the story it was clear that Mr Fleming needed help and I knew I was in a position to do something for him.

"After arranging to visit him and inspect the property properly, I was shocked.

"It needs a lot of work doing, more than just a coat of paint, to make sure Mr Fleming is comfortable again.

"We should be able to make his house feel like a home."

He added that his team will also get Mr Fleming new blinds to help replace the current sheets he has been forced to use as curtains before they finish the work later this week.

Mr Fleming said: "I can't wait to see what it is like when it's finished - they have all been working very hard.

"It will be great to feel comfortable in my own home again and not worry about the damage making my health conditions worse.

"I'm so grateful to Clifford and his workers for what they are doing for me.

"Just saying "thank you" doesn't seem enough."