Tribute paid to pensioner who died in Chatton house fire

James (Jim) Burtt, was pulled unresponsive from a property at West End, Chatton, on Friday afternoon.

Despite the best efforts of fire and ambulance crews, the 78-year-old was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

The coroner has been informed and a post-mortem will be held in due course.

His daughter, Penny Black, said: “It's been such a shock, for us all with the circumstances in which he died. We are finding it difficult to understand how it could have happened."

Jim began his working life as a dairy farmer but will be best remembered by many for his days as a bus driver, taking children to and from school.

He worked for Laidler Travel (now Glen Valley Tours) and for Arriva in Alnwick.

“I've spoken to a lot of people who remember him for taking them to school and Kirkley Hall,” said Penny.

He had lived in Chatton for around eight years.

“He was a well liked man in the village and everyone was so kind and did shopping for him and his neighbour kindly took him to hospital appointments,” said Penny.

She added: "His jokes were terrible but he thought they were funny – we all laughed anyway.

"Anyone who knew him would say he was always smiling and laughing.”

She thanked the emergency services for their efforts.

Jim had a sister, Barbara, and three grandchildren - Dawn, Donna and Liam.

It is the first death from a property fire in Northumberland for a number of years

It was reported at 3.38pm. Crews from Wooler, Alnwick and Berwick attended.

Paul Hedley, Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service chief fire officer, said, "This is a tragic incident, all of our thoughts are with the family and friends of the gentleman at this time.

"Our crews arrived quickly on scene and were able to rescue the gentleman from the property before tirelessly attempting resuscitation to save his life, unfortunately it was not possible on this occasion despite their best efforts.

"Both the crews and fire control did an incredible job considering the difficult circumstances and we will provide them with the support they need following this incident.

"Our fire investigation team will be working with our partners to determine the cause of the fire.”