Claudia’s daughter Matilda, 8, was rushed to hospital with burns after her witches costume caught fire during Halloween celebrations.
Restaurant owner James Poltuon, 45, suffered second-degree burns to his hands when he saved the youngster by putting the fire out.
He recalled to the Daily Mail: “Suddenly, Claudia’s daughter went up in a crackling ball of flame. All the children were wearing the same kit. It was like a potential horror film in front of me, because they were all going to go."
CLAUDIA GIVEN 'ALL THE TIME IN THE WORLD' TO CARE FOR DAUGHTER
"This material just keeps reigniting and re-burning. And it is sticky, so it melts on the skin. It doesn’t cinder. It remains hot. It was horrific, to be honest.
"I was trying to put it out with my hand. It was a warm night so I wasn’t wearing a jacket.
"I was trying to roll her and pat her clothes. I was trying to rip the costume off her, which didn’t really help because it just ripped and dropped back. It is very bad material."
James has played down the heroism of his actions, saying that as a father it was his duty to save Matilda.
CLAUDIA WINKLEMAN'S DAUGHTER IN HOSPITAL
He said: "Any parent would have done exactly the same thing so I don’t think there is anything heroic about it."
Claudia was understandably not present at last weekend’s Strictly Come Dancing. Presenter Zoe Ball filled her shoes as she stayed with her daughter in hospital.
The BBC has not confirmed if or when she will return to the show.
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