Neighbours and friends have raised more than £2,500 for a mother and son whose home was destroyed in a gas explosion.
The blast last Friday evening blew the front out of the house (above) and sparked a fire leaving occupants Linda Collins and her son John homeless.
A GoFundMe page set up by neighbours Jo Cooke and Karys Gomm managed to raise the total in only four days with the help of more than 100 people.
Writing on the fund-raising page, supporter Amanda Thompson commented: “This is my dear friends house. I hope she gets better soon and I hope this helps a bit. Thanks everyone who donated so far. John and family been through so much.”
Another supporter Sara Sharp wrote: “I am so relieved that no one was home, and hope you all manage, with time, to put that horror behind you. We are here for you.”
The terraced house on Haynt Walk in Merton Park had been the Collins’ home for more than 30 years.
The family is believed to be living in a hotel nearby and have been approached for comment.
The property was owned by Clarion housing association who are currently investigating the cause of the explosion.
A Clarion spokesperson said: “A gas explosion occurred at 53 Haynt Walk on the evening of Friday 19th October and thankfully nobody was injured. We are currently working with the Health and Safety Executive, our contractor United Living and Southern Gas Network to investigate the cause of the explosion.
“We are providing support to the household including the provision of temporary accommodation and reimbursement of costs.”
Those wishing to donate can do so at: https://www.gofundme.com/t58rwe
Picture: GoFundMe
