Over £15,600 has been raised for two families who have lost everything in a West Cumbrian village fire.
Fire crews worked for over 24 hours to put out the fire – which team members called an extremely challenging incident.
Initially, 10 fire engines were called to the blaze on Main Street, which has affected the Budgens store and a home behind it, at 6.55am on Thursday August 15.
Firefighters from stations including Bootle, Frizington, Egremont, Whitehaven, Workington, Aspatria, Windermere, Coniston and Millom tackled the blaze for several hours.
Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service also deployed an aerial ladder platform from Barrow, joint incident command unit from Workington, a welfare unit from Staveley, a water bowser from Maryport and a water bowser from Sellafield fire and rescue also attended.
The fire service has thanked its teams for their work and the community for their support during the incident.
It said: “We’d like to publicly thank all our teams who have worked incredibly hard over the past 24 hours-plus in response to the extremely challenging building fire on Gosforth Main Street.
“We also extend our sincere thanks to the local community for your kindness and co-operation, and we will continue to be here to support you in these difficult times.”
In response to the incident – local resident Megan O’Gorman has launched an online fundraiser to help the families get back on their feet.
It had a £10,000 target and it has so far raised £15,624.
She said: “Homes have been gutted, cherished possessions have been lost, and the heart of our community — the local shop that has served generations — has been gutted.
“We are coming together to raise funds for two families who have been deeply affected.“These families have not only lost their homes but they have been uprooted, and amidst the chaos, pets have gone missing, and irreplaceable memories have been destroyed.
“While donations of clothing and goods are being accepted at St Mary’s Church in Gosforth, financial support is desperately needed to help these families rebuild their lives from the ground up. Your generous donations will go directly towards helping them as they face the enormous task of rebuilding their lives.
“In times like these, our community’s strength lies in our unity and willingness to help one another. Any contribution, no matter how small, will make a difference. Let’s stand together and support those who have lost so much.”
Three cats are currently missing and people are urged to keep a look out for them and take them in if they can.
