Southall dad’s classic car collection destroyed by Diwali fireworks
Wed 02 Nov 2022
On Monday 24th October 2022, Anwar Sabar and his family were awakened in the middle of the night to find their childhood home in Southall surrounded by flames. Their garage on St Crispin’s Close was most likely set alight by the Diwali fireworks.
After making sure his family was out of the house and safe, Anwar bravely tried to put out the fire himself until he was physically pulled away by firefighters who arrived on the scene. Around 10:30 pm, four fire engines and 25 firefighters responded to the call. The fire kept him burning for over three hours.
Anwar dedidcated over 25 years to his main job but was made redundant at the height of the pandemic while also tragically losing his beloved father.
He decided to devote all his time to pursuing his passion of restoring classic cars and invested all his life savings into the business.
The single-storey garage was destroyed and part of two vehicles in the garage were damaged by the blaze. This included irreplaceable parts, and the collection of tools and equipment.
His family realises that most of what was lost is irreplaceable, but are heartbroken for him and are hoping to raise enough funds to repair the garage and replace some of the specialist tools and rare parts that were lost.
To provide support for his dad, his son Shameer set up a GoFundMe page to help get back on his feet. If you wish to help Anwar rebuild his beloved garage, click here.
He has always helped others and now is your chance to help him.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “We encourage people to attend organised fireworks displays instead of using fireworks privately, but if you do choose to use fireworks, make sure you have enough space, buy them from a reputable, licensed seller and always look for a CE mark to make sure they’re safe. Never drink alcohol and set off fireworks and don’t throw fireworks or return to a firework once it has been lit.”
“Remember that fireworks are explosives, and as such should be treated with respect and only used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and the Firework Code.”
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