Mum overwhelmed by generosity after house fire

Hundreds of pounds have been donated to help an Inverness family who were left homeless by a fire.

Inverness mother-ofthree Louise Macphee has been “overwhelmed” by people’s kindness since a fire broke out at her home last week.

Her 11-year-old daughter Chloe was rescued from the blaze, along with beloved dog Marshall, by family friend Paul Deuchars.

And since the drama on Monday, nearly £300 has been raised to help the family.

Speaking from temporary accommodation provided by the council, Mrs Macphee said: “I’ve been overwhelmed by people’s generosity.

“I’ve been stopped in the street by people I don’t even know who’ve offered whatever help we need.

“One woman, whose daughter went to school with my daughter, offered clothes. People in this community and surrounding areas have been amazing.”

The blaze was contained but caused extensive damage and destroyed virtually all of the family’s possessions.

An online fundraising campaign with a target of £500 was raised to help them get back on their feet.

Living in sheltered accommodation himself, he lost most of his clothes, which he had taken round to have washed.

Risking his life to rescue the Chloe from her upstairs bedroom, he raced back into the house after seeing her dog peering from a closed living room window.

Mr Deuchars passed out once he left the house and was treated for smoke inhalation – but has denied being a hero.

Anyone wishing to make a donation can do so online at www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/dalneighphoenixfund

Chloe and dog Marshall were rescued from the fire