Arson mum's anger over police probe

A MOTHER from Ipswich today spoke of her frustration after a probe into the fire which nearly killed her and her son hit a dead end.

Police said they will take no action against a 35-year-old woman and her 17-year-old son, both from Ipswich, who were arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.

Their bail was ended after reporting to Ipswich police station last month.

Janet and Nathan Widmark were rescued by firefighters after being trapped by the blaze at their home in Bramford Lane in February.

Miss Widmark, 50, said: “It is not the police's fault, but I hoped there would be closure. Nathan's not sure whether a fire might happen again.”

They have been left homeless while their house is renovated and are currently staying with Miss Widmark's 81-year-old mother, Audrey Leeks, in Shafto Road, Ipswich.

But they hoped a successful prosecution might help them move on from the ordeal.

Miss Widmark is also desperately trying to get ten-year-old Nathan, who goes to Whitehouse Junior School, counselling to help ease his emotional difficulties.

She said: “He has been having a real problem with nightmares and flashbacks. I have tried to put his mind at rest, but I think he needs to see someone.

“He might open up to somebody more than he does to me.”

Miss Widmark is hoping to boost the investigation by appealing for information about a car, believed to be a dark-coloured Ford Fiesta, which was spotted at the time of the fire, in the early hours of the morning on February 26.

The car was allegedly seen pulling into a lay-by next to the house while the pair were being rescued before driving away.

Anyone with information about the fire should call Suffolk police on 01473 613500 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Do you have a message of support for the family? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk