Call connected at 4:22.
‘999, what’s your emergency?’
‘Fire. I need the fire brigade.’
SLAM.
‘Hold for one moment while I put you through.’
PLEASE HOLD. PLEASE HOLD. PLEASE HOLD.
‘Hello, this is fire and rescue. What’s your emergency?’
‘There’s a fire. A fire in my house.’
SLAM.
‘What’s your address, please?’
‘Dunlow Manor, on the Dunlow Estate. Near Black Hill farm in the New Forest.’
SLAM. SLAM.
‘There’s a response team on their way. What’s your name, please?’
‘Timothy. Timothy Dunlow.’
‘How big is the fire, Mr Dunlow?’
‘Bloody huge. I didn’t notice it until it was too far gone.’
SLAM.
‘Have you left the building?’
‘I’m closing the doors. I don’t want it spreading.’
SLAM.
‘It’s much more important that you get yourself out of the building and away to a safe distance. Is there anyone else in the building?’
‘My sons. They were here. I sent them out straight away.’
SLAM.
‘Please join them, Mr Dunlow. The response team is minutes away.’
CRASH.
‘Mr Dunlow? Are you alright? Timothy?’
‘Yes, I’m fine. Something fell. Gave me a bloody shock. I’m leaving now.’
‘The team will be with you soon. Would you like me to stay on the line with you until they arrive?’
‘That won’t be necessary.’