ONE person died and 28 more were taken to hospital after a blaze at a

nursing home late last night.

The fire broke out at the Fernleigh Nursing Home, East Avenue,

Clarendon Park, Leicester, shortly before 11pm.

Most of those taken to Leicester Royal Infirmary were suffering from

the effects of smoke inhalation and cold. One was in a serious

condition.

A Leicestershire fire brigade spokesman said six appliances were sent

to tackle the fire, which started in a resident's ground floor room.

Firemen wearing breathing equipment brought the blaze under control

shortly after midnight.

Of the 28 people taken to hospital, four were believed to be staff

members, the rest elderly residents.