The owners of a retirement building that went up in flames this morning have paid tribute to the community for helping during the emergency.

Peverel Retirement, which owns the purpose-built retirement building in Manor Road North, Hinchley Wood, said its thoughts were with residents and their families.

A spokesman said: “We would like to pay tribute to the local community for the invaluable assistance they have offered to our residents.

“In particular we would like to thank Elmbridge Council’s Claygate Centre for the Community for providing accommodation for those affected, the British Heart Foundation for donating clothing, local chemists for offering prescription medication and county and borough staff.

“We are continuing to engage with the authorities as they investigate this matter.”

Gibson Court consists of individual flats with a house manager and a 24-hour emergency call system.

Residents and relatives can call Peverel Retirement on 0845 4501809 if they any concerns or questions.