Invergordon family who lost possessions in Easter Ross blaze thank community for rallying round
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A FAMILY who lost everything in a devastating blaze at the weekend have expressed heartfelt thanks to the community for rallying round.
Invergordon couple Helen Alexander and George Williamson, and their three children, were unharmed as flames engulfed their home at 36 Gordon Terrace on Saturday afternoon.
While the fire burned in the first floor and loft area, smoke and water damage was extensive throughout.
Heartbreakingly, the family – now temporarily re-housed at Milnafua in Alness – were unable to retrieve any personal possessions.
With an immediate need for essentials, including baby equipment and clothes, they were blown away by the rapid response from well-wishers in and around Invergordon.
A family friend, Laura Dryburgh, posted a social media plea for help, with offers of food, clothing, furniture and other necessities soon flooding in.
A crowdfunder has now been set up to offer the family further help at www.gofundme.com/f/help-helen-and-george-start-again
Beauty and aesthetics lecturer Tina McCaffery, who set up the crowdfunder, said: “There was no loss of life, thank goodness, but it is just a crying shame for the family.
“They have young children – a baby, a little one and a teenager – and they have lost everything.
“They did go in and see if anything was salvageable, but nothing was. They’re coping, but naturally very upset. The children have lost all their toys. Helen and George must have lived in that house for well over 15 years.
“It is not just belongings, it is memories – all those small things you can’t replace – it’s all gone. To start again is very tough.”
She said the family is full of gratitude to the community, adding: “When the community rallies in the way it does, it is absolutely heart-warming. There are a lot of good people out there who don’t want to see anybody, particularly a family with young children, going without.
“That’s what makes this community special.”
Local councillor Maxine Smith added: “As always in Invergordon and Alness, the community has been amazing in rallying round with items of furniture or household goods being collected.
“My thoughts are with the family. The council’s welfare team is assisting them.”
