I'm deeply saddened to report that Wat Buddharam in Wanstead, East London has this morning been gutted by fire.

I was driving to my garage to get the car serviced and was badly held up in traffic, I was shocked to see that the cause of the delays were the Fire Engines in attendance at the temple.

What makes this even sadder is that the Venerable Monks had only moved into this, their new permanent home, two weeks ago. I hope and pray that they escaped from the house safely.

If anyone has any news please report it here.

Keith

Here's a link to a report by the local paper. Thankfully everyone got out ok.

Wat Buddharam Fire

If anyone wants to make a donation to Wat Buddharam, then there is a small donation box in the shrine room of the Kuti (monks house) at Wat Buddhapadipa in Wimbledon.

Also a few photos of the damage sustained and an article from the Ilford Recorder.

Packpao

quote:

Originally posted by packpao:
If anyone wants to make a donation to Wat Buddharam ...

Were they not insured?

The recall the article mentioning they were insured. It also said they had a mortgage so I would image property insurance would be mandatory.

Keith, do you have any updates? Where the monks are living at the moment?

Packpao

quote:

Were they not insured?

Yes they had buildings insurance and the place should be rebuilt within 5 to 6 months. They didn't have contents insurance, so any monies raised will be for fixtures/fittings and furniture.

Packpao, the Monks are living at a private address and can be seen if they are contacted first.

The Temple actually had a very successful Songkran day last Sunday, held at a local sports ground. I'm sure they raised quite alot there.

Keith

quote:

The Temple actually had a very successful Songkran day last Sunday, held at a local sports ground. I'm sure they raised quite alot there.

We managed to get there after friends let us know about it (didn’t see no advertising)

I was pleasantly surprised at the turnout and found the atmosphere very friendly and relaxed, I’ll be keeping a look out for future events.

I’ll pop something in the donation box and wish them a speedy recovery.

Steve & Kwang