The town of Stroud is grappling with profound grief following a fatal house fire that took the lives of a mother and her two children on Boxing Day. The tragedy has deeply affected the community, which has come together to support one another in the wake of this heartbreaking event.
Brimscombe Mill’s community initiative, The Long Table, has stepped forward to offer a gathering place for residents to collectively mourn and find solace. Tom Herbert, one of the founders, shared on social media that The Sanctuary space at Brimscombe Mill would remain open through the week, providing a warm and welcoming environment for reflection and comfort.
In a heartfelt Facebook post, Herbert wrote, “Losing a family from our community is utterly devastating. We are honoured to hold space in The Sanctuary at Brimscombe Mill. The space will be open until 8 pm today, and then from 2 pm to 8 pm over the coming days, adding another spot alongside Rev Peters church on Brimscombe Hill for us to come together and grieve.”
READ MORE: Multiple Road Closures in Forest of Dean Following Serious Two-Vehicle Collision
READ MORE: Jilly Cooper and Ozzy Osbourne Among Notable Celebrities We Lost in 2025
Emergency services, including Gloucestershire Constabulary and the Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service, have also made their presence felt at Brimscombe Mill, working alongside the British Red Cross to offer support to those affected.
Herbert further detailed, “We have representatives from the British Red Cross, the police, and fire services here until 2 pm to help process this tragedy and provide reassurance. There is tea, coffee, homemade cake, and floral tributes are most welcome. The Sanctuary remains open until 8 pm today.”
The fire occurred around 3 a.m. in a property on Brimscombe Hill. Tom Shearman, a Gloucestershire Police officer, bravely attempted to rescue his family but was unable to overcome the intense flames. His wife, Fionnghuala Shearman (known as Nu), and their children, seven-year-old Eve and four-year-old Ohner, tragically lost their lives.
Mr. Shearman was hospitalized for treatment but has since been discharged. Detective Superintendent Ian Fletcher expressed the deep sorrow felt by the police force for their colleague. “He is in a distraught state after being unable to save his wife and children,” Fletcher said. “This appears to be a tragic accident with no suspicious circumstances at this time.”
The community continues to offer prayers and support to Mr. Shearman and his colleagues during this profoundly difficult period, united in grief shared across Stroud.