COMMUNITY PULLS TOGETHER FOR FRED AND JUNE
Family overwhelmed by support after couple lose treasured possessions and memories in house fire
A couple who lost their treasured possessions and memories after a fire at their home of 35 years are being supported by an online fundraiser, which has raised almost £2,000 to help them get back on their feet.
Fred and June Todd had a lucky escape from the fire at their home – in Avenue Vivian, Fence Houses – in the early hours of September 7.
June, 78, was woken by the property’s fire alarm at 5.45am after a blaze began in the living room of their home.
She and husband Fred, 82, managed to get themselves out of the house with just the clothes on their backs.
Now, great-grandaughter Anais Clegg has launched a fundraiser to help replace all they have lost.
Dozens of people have already donated, with the total climbing to almost £2,000.
Anais’ mum Ashley Gillan, 35, said her family is blown away by the support for her grandparents from the local community and beyond.
"We honestly can’t believe how many people in Fence Houses have donated, and some people who don’t even know them,” she said.
"Grandad tries to look on the positive side of things but I think Nana is thinking of everything they have built up over 35 years of living there; it’s lost.”
Fred fell ill with a virus around 25 years ago, which affected his ability to walk.
He still struggles with his mobility and lost his electric scooter, wheelchair and crutches in the fire.
The couple were taken to Sunderland Royal Hospital in the aftermath of the fire, with June requiring a transfusion due to suffering from a rare blood cancer.
They are now staying with Ashley’s parents Amanda and Brian Clegg.
Amanda, 54, thanked the emergency services for the response and care provided to her parents during and after the fire, as well as the community for their generous donations.
She added: “They have donated to people who have needed it before, people think the world of them and want to help.”
St George' s Residential Care Home were a mong those offering help, providing vouchers to buy the couple clothes.
Amanda also thanked the rest of her family – including sister Paula, son Graham and niece Leanne – for joining the effort to keep her parents safe and looked after.
To support of Fred and June, visit the Go Fund Me page.