A HAMPSHIRE community is rallying round a family who have lost everything in a fire that killed their grandfather and destroyed their home.
Brent Mason tragically died after flames ripped through his Calmore home on Tuesday morning, having been trapped inside his home he shared with his wife, Elizabeth.
She was able to flee YewTree Cottage, in The Drove, along with her grandchildren, who were staying with them at the time but sadly nothing could be done to save the 66-year-old.
Yesterday the cordon that had been in place around the property while forensic and fire investigation officers continued their inquiries, had been lifted.
Outside the burned out shell of the detached property, bunches of flowers had been laid in tribute to Mr Mason.
Hampshire police are still investigating how the fire started.
As his family struggle to come to terms with their devastating loss, neighbours, friends and strangers within the community have joined forces to do what they can to help.
Carly Jean Hudson, who lives in Hythe, has launched an appeal for vital supplies, such as clothes, toys and bedding for the family, who are believed to be staying with several friends.
The 25-year-old doesn’t knowthe family but felt compelled to help them knowing howdifficult it must be having to deal with not just the loss of their home, but their loved one.
She has been told that three of the four grandsons are aged 12, 13 and 17, so she is particularly looking for clothes suitable for boys aged 12-13, 13- 14 and extra large.
They are also in need of the basics, such as towels, bedding, toothbrushes and toiletries.
There is also an appeal for DVDs of the television series Friends as the oldest grandson had the full collection which was lost in the blaze.
Mum-of-one Carly Jean said: “I don’t know the family but I just feel so sorry for them. Not only have they lost all their belongings, they have lost their loved one too and I just wanted to do something to help.
“It is such an awful tragedy and I can’t imagine what they are going through.”
Anyone who would like to make a donation can email Carly at carlyjeanhudson@hotmail.co.uk.
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