A FUND-RAISING effort to support an Evesham family who lost their home in a gas explosion two days after Christmas has seen more than £1,000 donated.
The JustGiving page to support the family affected by the explosion on the Hemmingway on December 27 has already topped £1,200 after only a week of the appeal.
Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said while a gas leak was the cause, further investigation was needed to determine how it ignited.
A man caught in the explosion was taken to hospital in a critical condition. Three others have since been discharged.
Writing on the page, organiser Toyah Riley said: “Everything has been destroyed. Our thoughts are with the whole family and we send get well wishes too.
“The Evesham community have come together well and in particular the Fairfield community have rallied around, lets now show our respects and raise funds for the family.”
The building suffered extensive damage and, to ensure the safety of the public, 10 neighbouring homes were evacuated.
Six crews from Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (HWFRS) were sent to the scene and the gas supply had to be temporarily cut off from 35 homes.
Supt Nigel Webster, who led the police response, said: “This was, of course, a devastating incident and our thoughts are with those injured, their families and the local residents.
“The community pulled together to support each other and we’d particularly like to thank the local public house, which kindly gave shelter to those that had been displaced from their homes.”
Visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/toyah-riley-2 for more.
