A remarkable outpouring of support has emerged following a tragic Boxing Day fire near Stroud that claimed the lives of a woman and two children. Over £86,000 has been raised to assist a police officer left grieving and facing immediate practical challenges after the devastating loss.
The fundraising campaign, initiated by Lucy and Victoria, aims to provide emergency accommodation, clothing, and essential supplies for the bereaved father. At last count, more than 3,000 donors have contributed £82,700—74% of the £110,000 target.
The officer, a serving member of Gloucestershire Constabulary, survived the fire by escaping through a bathroom window around 3 a.m. on December 26. Despite desperate attempts to re-enter the home to save his children by breaking into the bedroom and forcing entry through the doors, he was unable to reach them as the fire rapidly consumed the property.
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Tragically, the fire claimed the lives of a woman in her 30s and two children, aged seven and four. Emergency crews recovered the body of one child at the scene, with efforts continuing to find the second. The woman’s body was recovered two days later.
The father was hospitalized but has since been discharged. Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service continues to investigate the cause of the fire, which originated on the ground floor. The incident is not being treated as suspicious. Due to extensive damage, specialist teams are working to secure the property for further emergency access.
Deputy Chief Fire Officer Nathaniel Hooton expressed condolences, stating, “Our thoughts are very much with the family and everyone affected by this devastating fire. Our crews remain on site to assist colleagues and support the local community as the investigation continues.”
Among the generous donors is Countess Bathurst, whose family owns Cirencester Park, illustrating the broad community response to aid the grieving officer during this unimaginable time.