Help arrives for homeless family

A FAMILY who escaped unharmed when their house was almost destroyed in a gas explosion have thanked their neighbours for coming up with a DIY SOS-style rescue.

Hundreds of people have stepped forward to offer help to Josie Cornish, 75, and her husband Alan, 73, who did not have home insurance, after their Bude home was turned to rubble last month.

The couple were watching television at home with their son, Darren, 48, on January 20, when they thought they could smell gas. Josie went to investigate but, when she opened the oven door to inspect, a “massive” fireball erupted, destroying most of the house.

The family all miraculously survived, suffering only minor injuries, but they cannot return to the house until it is rebuilt from the ground up. Now the local community has rallied around them and made plans to rebuild their demolished home.

Darren said his family were so grateful for all the help they have received. He explained: “A guy called Ian French has got involved as the project manager. He has been talking to Bovis Homes and they’ve offered to pay for the whole build.

“The local builders merchants, there’s three of them, they all offered to chip in – that’s Travis Perkins, Bradfords, and Bromells.

“It’s amazing, it goes to show how the local community can all come together at times like this – the support has been incredible,” he added. “Local builders, plasters, electricians – they’ve all offered their time for free. Without all the kindness, mum and dad would be in trouble.”