UK Cypriot couple Andreas and Sophia Lescou die in London house fire

An elderly UK Cypriot couple, Andreas and Sophia Lescou, tragically lost their lives in a house fire at their Barnet home in London. The blaze began in the early hours of the morning when a memorial candle ignited nearby religious materials and photographs. Fire crews from Barnet, Southgate, and Finchley managed to bring the fire under control within two hours, but the couple was pronounced dead at the scene. London Fire Brigade officials have since issued a warning about the dangers of leaving candles unattended, suggesting flameless alternatives for safety. The couple, who met in 1958, were well-known business owners who operated several delicatessens across London and in Cyprus. Their joint funeral is scheduled for February 12 at the Greek Orthodox Church of St. Katherine.