MS sufferer dies in tragic Maybole house blaze

Aug 8 2008 by Stuart Wilson

A DISABLED woman died when fire ripped through her home.

Margaret Reid, 72, who suffered from multiple sclerosis, was killed when the blaze destroyed the house she lived in alone.

Mrs Reid, who was confined to a wheelchair, was killed when the fire took hold shortly after 9pm at her home in Culzean Road.

Neighbours and community leaders have spoken of their shock at her sudden death.

Maybole community councillor, David Kiltie, paid his respects: “It’s a sad loss.

“Margaret was the secretary at Cairn Primary for more than 30 years and so many people in the town knew her.

“She was obviously a very brave woman and a lot of pupils, staff and parents will remember her.”

Mrs Reid’s late husband, William, was a well known bowler and joiner in the town and ran his own business – Andrew Reid and Co.

The couple, who had one daughter, moved into their house in Culzean Road in 1973.

Hugh Paterson, who lived next door, added: “Margaret was very popular and had battled MS since she was much younger.

“She received an excellent care service in her final years and she’d get the news of the town quicker than most people through her carers.

“My wife popped in to see her most days for a chat and she’ll be greatly missed.”

Fire, police and ambulance crews all attended the blaze which claimed Mrs Reid’s life on Monday night.

An investigation is under way into what caused the fire, which is believed to have started in the kitchen. A police spokesperson said: “Enquiries are ongoing into the cause of the fire, however, at this time there do not appear to be any suspicious circumstances.

“A full report will be sent to the procurator fiscal.”