RESIDENTS of Delamere Park, Cuddington, have been brought together following the devastating effects of a fire at their community centre last month.

The building, which housed extensive leisure facilities including a swimming pool, squash courts and bar, was burned to the ground in the early hours of March 10.

The fire, believed to have been started by a discarded cigarette, has had an enormous impact on the community.

Margaret Willis, of Hollow Oak Lane, said there was an overall feeling of distress about the fire.

She said: "People are devastated. We all used it and we all miss it.

"I was on holiday when it happened and was shocked to hear the news when I got back. It really was the heart of the community."

But the unfortunate incident has produced a happier side effect.

A resident of The Cobbles said: "It made me realise how much of a strong community we have here. It has really brought people together."

She explained numerous people from the neighbourhood had helped the firefighters by supplying food and drinks throughout the evening of the fire, a feeling of solidarity that has resounded throughout the estate since.

The estate manager could not comment on what plans lay ahead for the future of the community centre, although both residents believe that the centre will eventually be rebuilt.

gsproston@guardiangrp.co.uk