TV presenter Claudia Winkleman has established herself as a popular presenter in Strictly Come Dancing.
But the engaging, witty 42 year-old was talking publicly last week in quite a different role: as a mum.
She was describing the horrific moment she turned to see her much-loved eight year-old daughter Matilda on fire. Her Halloween fancy dress costume had brushed against a naked flame and immediately ignited.
It’s a nightmare scenario for any parent, and Matilda suffered severe burns from which she is still recovering.
It’s almost more horrible because it occurred at a celebratory time but it does highlight the danger of fancy dress outfits which don’t have to comply with current children’s clothing regulations. That’s what Claudia was warning about on the Watchdog programme.
Children love flowing fancy dress robes but every parent should question if these are safe. A simple re-classification of them from toys to clothes would give fancy dress outfits the same safeguards as children’s nightwear. It’s an easy step to preventing this agony from recurring.
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