Family appeals over fatal blaze

Advertisement

Appeal for witnesses to an arson attack

The husband of a woman killed in an arson attack at their home has appealed for witnesses to come forward, saying he "just wants justice".

Hameeda Begum, 71, died in hospital after the blaze at the couple's home in Great Lever, Bolton, three weeks ago.

Her daughter Saima Mian, 24, and granddaughter Alana Mian, four, remain seriously ill in hospital.

Jeweller Mumtaz Chishty, 71, Mrs Begum's husband of 45 years, said: "She was my all."

"Since I married I have never ever been away from her," Mr Chishty said.

Hameeda Begum died in hospital

"My concerns are now for my daughter and granddaughter. I want to appeal to every person in Bolton.

"We need to know who this was and why they did it. I have no grudge with anyone. I just want justice for my wife and family."

The blaze started in a bin at the front of the house in Little Holme Walk.

Mr Chishty said his wife saved his life after she heard the fire alarm go off.

He was held back by neighbours as he tried to return to the burning house to save her.

Fahad Mian, husband of Saima and Alana's father, said: "If anybody has seen anything, whether they think it is suspicious or not, please come forward so we can have some sort of justice.

"We have already lost a life."

His wife and daughter suffered burns and are on life support machines.

Four-year-old Alana Mian remains seriously ill

Alana has also undergone a heart operation. They were on a six-month visit to relatives in Bolton, from their home in Australia, when the arson was carried out.

Bolton firefighter Steve Morris, 38, was also badly burned when he tried to rescue Mrs Begum. He remains critically ill.

Mr Mian said: "My heart goes out to all the firefighters who helped that night.

"All of us are praying together for their recovery.

"There is no courage greater than theirs."

A 12-year-old boy and a 22-year-old man were arrested on suspicion of murdering Mrs Begum and have been released on bail.