A FRIEND of a pensioner who died in a house fire says she was “a pillar of the community”.

Hazel Holttum, of Sandford Road, Bromley, died on June 11 following the incident in her home.

It is thought the fire was caused after the 71-year-old fell asleep in her bedroom while holding a cigarette.

Christine Baxter, of Palace Road, Bromley, visited Mrs Holttum the night before she died.

Mrs Baxter said: “She was a real lady and very articulate.

“She travelled the world, there was not a place she did not visit.”

The 62-year-old added: ”She had a wonderful character and was a huge person.

“Her door was never locked and you could just go to her 24 hours a day.

“She was a pillar of the community.”

Before Mrs Holttum retried four years ago, she was a community psychiatric nurse at Stepping Stones - a Bromley-based organisation which helps people overcome mental health issues.

Cheryl Hill, of Upper Park Road, Bromley, worked with Mrs Holttum and knew her for 26 years.

The 46-year-old said: “She was a very loving and caring person and she gave plenty of time to people who were suffering from nervous breakdowns.

“Everybody loved her.”

The pensioner had two daughters and one son, along with five grandchildren.

She was due to celebrate her birthday the next day.

Mrs Baxter added: “Her family were very supportive of her and the grandchildren absolutely doted on her.

“She was cherished and loved."