Crediton fire collection raises £10,000 (so far) (From This is The West Country)

Crediton fire collection raises £10,000 (so far)

5:00pm Saturday 11th February 2012 in Devon

KIND-hearted Crediton residents have given about £10,000 to a collection for those who lost their homes in last Thursday’s fire.

Crediton Town Council set up the collection in aid of the affected families, who were taken in by Crediton Parish Church following the blaze and have since been temporarily housed with neighbours and friends.

A town council spokesman said: “Two churches have donated generously and one retail outlet in the town has donated very generously.

“We’ve received £1,000 from a private individual and other organisations in town have also donated.”

A collection was held at the farmers’ market over the weekend and several charities have shown an interest in helping those who have lost their homes.

The town council is still happy to hear from anyone who has items they would like to give to the cause.

People are asked to contact the council first so collection and storage can be arranged. Donated items will be given to families based on their individual needs.

More than 100 firefighters tackled the flames after the thatched homes in Mill Street and Buller Square caught fire last Thursday afternoon.

About 25 fire engines were called to the scene from across Devon to deal with the blaze.

The incident caused tailbacks and traffic congestion between the East Street junction and the A377 Exeter Road junction.

No one was injured in the fire.