Widower's thanks for kindness after tragedy

He told the Observer: "Our family has recently been grieving the loss of a loving wife, mother and grandmother, not to mention our home and all our worldly possessions.

"We have, however, been comforted in these time of need by the kindness and selfless acts of others.

"We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the police, firefighters, paramedics, CID and the staff of the Conquest accident and emergency department for their help and compassion, which seemed to go beyond the call of duty.

"We would also like to thank the housing department, Cruse, Bexhill Trust and everyone who came to our aid with help, advice and financial assistance.

"Without this help we would have found our difficult situation almost impossible to deal with.

"For those who have not already personally thanked, we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to members of Battle Baptist Church, our close personal friends, and those who laid floral tributes at the scene.

"We would also like to thank the residents of Sackville Road and the many members of the public for their assistance at the scene, as well as their continued help, support and generous donations."

He added: "Finally, to those who may not have been mentioned here, you know who you are, your help has also been greatly appreciated."

Alan Hill says: "It's been one of the longest weeks of my life. Nobody can tell me how to act or what to do - I don't know anyone who's been in this situation.

"I don't want to think about the next day. I am l working from hour to hour to the funeral.

"Each day has another list of things to do, people to see, forms to fill in...I just hope the insurance company acts quickly and doesn't ask us to list all that we lost.

"Birth certificates, marriage certificate, passports - everything's gone. Other people have to think of one thing in a week. I have to think of it all at once.

Alan and his son Alan ran the Taifu marshal arts club. Alan has even thought to have a notice put up at St Mary Magdalene's Hall to tell members that someone else is running the club in his place.