Leominster writer and artist Jo Mary Stafford is recovering from shock after her car was destroyed in an arson attack outside her home last week.
The vicious attack took place at 1am in the Paradise Court sheltered housing complex in Bridge Street on Tuesday, August 17.
A pensioner and well-known author in the town, Jo Mary fears that her car may have been targeted.
“Why was my car attacked, the oldest car and the nearest one to the sheltered bungalows?” she asked.
Her car has been wrecked as a result of the severe fire damage. “I can only afford to run a little old car but it’s a complete write-off,” she said.
Jo Mary later discovered that a second car had been set on fire near Paradise Court on the same night, and she is keen to make a stand on behalf of local residents.
“If it affects vulnerable people then I want to raise awareness,” said Jo Mary, who is herself recovering from spinal surgery.
She expressed her dismay at not having any follow up care as a result of the overnight attack. “I’ve had no Victim Support,” she said.
Jo Mary became aware of the attack when she was woken by a loud explosion and saw flickering flames through her curtains.
“I heard frantic bashing on my door from a neighbour urging me to get out,” she said. “The fire brigade was on its way but stopped at the crossing nearby where a second arson attack had occurred.
“The perpetrators must have used an accelerant as the fire in my car was so fierce.”
When she spoke to the Journal this week, she was awaiting a visit from her doctor. “I am suffering from post-traumatic stress,” she said. “I don’t want to scare people but this area is dedicated to supported housing and it’s not just my life I’m worried about.”
A police spokesperson confirmed that an investigation is still ongoing. She said that a dedicated detective constable had been allocated to look after the case. “We have spoken to the victim and referred her to Victim Support,” she said.