'Their world has fallen apart': Fundraiser launched for family devastated by Market Drayton blaze
A fundraiser has been launched to help a family left devastated by a fire which burnt through their home and destroyed their belongings in Market Drayton.
Black smoke could be seen billowing into the sky as firefighters battled a static caravan blaze at Fordhall Grange Stud, just off the A53 Tern Hill road at about 4.45pm on Wednesday.
The fire burnt through the caravan and a lean-to building before spreading to nearby fencing, and firefighters were unable to save the home despite their best efforts. A number of family pets were also lost.
A member of the public, believed to be an off-duty firefighter, has been praised by the fire service for disconnecting several gas cylinders in close proximity to the blaze.
A GoFundMe has been launched with a target of £10,000 to help the homeowners, Mike and Sharon Bailey, who run the on-site stud and livery yard and live with their son.
Close friend and extended family member Deborah Pound, who launched the fundraiser, said: "They've lost everything, their home, all their belongings, and also sadly some of their pets.
"It's been absolutely devastating for them – their world has fallen apart. This morning they had to go shopping for clothes as all they had were the ones on their backs at the time.
"Sharon and her son were feeding some of the animals when they noticed flames coming from the roof. They risked their lives and went back into the caravan to try and save some of the animals."
The family are appealing for donations of clothing and pet food.
"Clothes and shoes are obviously the first things they need. Also dog and cat food, as their money will be spent on buying clothes, so anything anybody can give will help," said Deborah.
"They're staying with relatives at the moment but are obviously homeless. Eventually when they have accommodation they'll be needing furniture as well."
Shropshire Fire & Rescue Service sent three appliances from Hodnet, Market Drayton and Prees. Operations, fire investigation and safety officers were in attendance.
Market Drayton Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT), part of West Mercia Police, was also on scene to help with traffic due to smoke affecting the nearby road.
A spokesperson from Market Drayton Fire Station said: "Whilst on route to the incident the crew were informed by fire control that numerous 999 calls were being received reporting a large fire. A large column of thick black smoke was also visible to the crew from some distance from the incident.
"On arrival at the scene the crew found a severe fire in progress involving the entire caravan, with the fire rapidly spreading to other nearby buildings, some containing animals.
"Crews immediately began working in challenging conditions to prevent the fire spreading.
"We are pleased to report that thankfully there were no persons trapped inside the caravan, and that there were no injuries to any persons.
"We can confirm that none of the animals in the nearby buildings were injured, due to firefighters and their owners being able to quickly reach them and move them to a safe area.
"Sadly it is believed that some family pets may have perished in the fire.
"We would like to praise the passing members of the public, one believed to be an off-duty firefighter, who stopped and quickly disconnected and removed the gas cylinders to a safe area."
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, although it is initially believed to have started from an electrical fault in the back bedroom, with a specialist fire investigation officer returning to the scene today.
To donate to the fundraiser, visit gofundme.com/f/fire-devastation-appeal? or search Ford Hall Grange Livery Fire on social media.
