A RELATIVE of a 95-year-old man who died in a flat fire says his family is in shock.

Three fire engines and around 15 firefighters were called to a flat in Upton Road, Plumstead, last Friday (July 24), at 9.27am.

By around 10am the fire was under control, but a man, believed to be called Herbert Burbidge, was found dead in the home.

His great-niece Anne Burbidge, of Lawrie Park Road, Sydenham, says the former carpenter refused to go in a care home and insisted on living at the flat.

She said: “He was a very strong character and was a tank driver in the Second World War.

“He was very kind and very caring but quite fiesty even in his old age.

“It was only because of the support and help he got from the neighbours that he was able to live the way he wanted, and I would like to thank them for that.”

Ms Burbidge says her great-uncle, who was a widow with no children, was born in Canada but has lived in Plumstead and Eltham since he was a teenager.

According to the Fire Brigade, a large amount of the property was damaged and the cause of the blaze, which is not being treated as suspicious, is under investigation.

An inquest into the death is due to open this week.

Did you know the man or did you witness the fire? Call the newsroom on 01689 885 790 or leave your tributes below.