Students come to Buckingham pensioner’s aid after blaze

From left: Ellie Powles and Sam Winstanley from Santander, with Dandy Robertson and Dee Bunker from the University of Buckingham

Dandy Robertson, who lives on her own, lost her Gawcott Road home in August when the grill caught fire as she watched TV and the blaze took hold.

She was moved into a house on the same road but having lost a lot of possessions and with no family, people felt compelled to help.

Former dance teacher Dandy, who has lived in Buckingham for 70 years, said: “It’s very nice of them. When someone is that thoughtful – what can you say?

“It was a complete surprise, I just got a knock on the door. It’s so nice to think people are thinking of you.”

Personal banker Julie Savage spoke to Dandy at Santander as she collected her pension and was saddened to hear she would be on her own this Christmas.

Julie got in touch with the University of Buckingham and with the help of student Alicia Robinson, food boxes, blankets and pillows were delivered to Dandy.

The bank also arranged for an oil heater and microwave to be delivered and students have agreed to do any DIY for Dandy when she moves back into her new home in the New Year.

Julie, 49, who lives in Linden Village, said: “I spoke to Dandy and it dawned on me that she was walking out the door and no one was doing anything about it.

“She said no one is going to see her over Christmas and that she was cold.

“She really got to us, because she is a resident. I got some blankets and heaters and she is warm now.

“She said when you get to her age, you become invisible and I thought: ‘Oh my God, that’s so true’.”

Items can be brought to the university’s Yeomanry House on Hunter Street.