Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu and his wife Leah Tutu have safely escaped a fire that broke out at their retirement village in Hermanus on Wednesday morning [September 9].
The fire damaged the living area of their cottage. Luckily, the couple did not sustain any injuries and were in good spirits considering the events that unfolded around daybreak.
In a statement, the Tutu’s thanked the staff at their retirement village and members of the local fire department.
“We cannot thank the staff at the village enough for their kindness and quick action; or members of the fire department, unsung heroes, on whose courage one leans in the most difficult circumstances. God bless them all,” the Tutus said.
The cause of the fire is unknown. It is believed to have been triggered by a faulty gas heater.
Picture: Demond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation