A FUNDRAISER has been started to support a family in Church Crookham whose house burnt down.
Firefighters were called to a block of flats in the village on Wednesday, September 25, at 11.30am after smoke was spotted billowing from the building.
Two residents, a man and a woman, received medical treatment at the scene before being transferred to the hospital, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service (HIWFRS) has said.
READ MORE: Landlord thanks 'hero' neighbour who helped tenant escape house fire
Two cats and a dog were saved from the apartment block by crews from Fleet and Rushmoor, who gave the pets oxygen before they were taken to a vet by their owner.
A resident in the block of flats, Corrinne Purse, has set up a GoFundMe to raise money for the family affected.
Corrine says she set up the fundraiser, which at the time of writing has raised £2,770 with a target of £4,000 to 'help the family'.
She added: "I would be happy to accept any donations for items in person or money through this page to give to them to help in any way possible.
"Anything would be greatly appreciated."
The fire was combated by crews who used hose reel jets to battle the blaze, in addition to ventilation fans to clear the smoke.
Firefighters used a 105-foot ladder to access flats adjacent to the fire to 'ensure the safety of all residents'.
SEE ALSO: Army veteran shares tales of risky Ukrainian mercy dash to packed audience
Ten residents in the building will require rehousing, with the cause of the fire 'currently under investigation' according to HIWFRS.
Station manager, Simon Forster, said: “Immediately after arriving, we were faced with a fully developed fire. Our priority was the safety of the occupants and addressing their medical needs to ensure everyone was evacuated safely.
"We also rescued one dog and two cats from the property, providing them with oxygen at the scene.
"Crews swiftly tackled the fire and brought it under control, and we truly appreciate their hard work.
“I also want to extend my gratitude to our ambulance colleagues and partners for their close collaboration, as well as to the residents of Fleet for their support during this challenging situation.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here