This is why we love the area . . .

Great to live in an area where people still care for others

Last week’s Courier carried an article regarding the rescue of two dogs from a burning house. Yes, those were our dogs and we will be eternally grateful to Michael Fann, who braved the flames and got them out, with the assistance of IPSS.

The ‘doggie door’ through which our animals come and go was next to the stove, where the fire started. (There was load shedding at the time, and a pan of oil was left on the stove, which ignited once the power came on). Our house-sitter, needless to say, was absolutely mortified at his mistake, having been our house-sitter for 15 years without any negative incident. However, it is an easy thing to do, and most of us have left things ‘on’ thinking they are ‘off’.

In this case, no lives were lost and we are truly grateful as well to the neighbours and friends who went to such lengths to get in touch with us. We were in the mountains in the middle of Sicily on a walking trip at the time, and there were no comms in the immediate area. The Beach House family rallied, and provided security. Our dogs were looked after by first one neighbour, Michael, and then the Jones family (no relation!) just around the corner from us. Within an hour of our touching down after a very long flight, Rory Hunt (who knows exactly which of the Sage menu is our favourite) popped around with a wonderful hot meal for us. Other friends dropped off home-made bread and cookies and offered to do all our laundry.

These are the things that make living in this area so precious and why we love our home and surroundings so much. The kindness we have been shown by all with whom we have come into contact since the fire has been truly appreciated and will help us and the animals survive what is going to be a difficult few weeks repairing the damage. Last but by no means least, THANK YOU to the Ballito Fire Department. Guys, without your good work we would have had no house and home at all to come back to. So we thank you for your dedication and efficiency.

SANDY AND DI JONES

Salt Rock