A COMMUNITY has rallied round a ‘kind’ Somerset farming family whose home has been ‘severely damaged’ by a ‘devastating’ fire.

On Sunday (October 4) Highbridge resident Lenka Mayo launched a fundraising page to support the Coles family, whose Brent House Farm was hit by fire on Saturday (October 3) and raised £10,000 in just 24 hours to help them to rebuild.

Firefighters from across Somerset were called to the farm in Edingworth Rd shortly after 7am on Saturday and battled throughout the day to bring the fire under control.

The fire broke out on the ground floor of the family’s home but all those inside managed to escape before crews arrived.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said the property was “50 per cent” damaged by the fire.

In just two days Lenka’s fundraising page has raised more than £13,000 for the family and has attracted support from almost 400 people.

“I am absolutely overwhelmed by the amazing support that everyone has shown for the Coles family in the past two days,” Lenka said.

“When I first heard about the fire I thought it was in the family’s farm shop next to their house and put out an appeal to raise £1,000 to help.

“I was shocked when I discovered that it was their home that had been damaged. It is absolutely devastating for them as they have lost everything.

“I regularly visit the Coles shop and get on well with the family. They have always been so kind to me, always willing to help me and my children.

“We all clapped for our key workers throughout the coronavirus pandemic because they all did a fantastic job but I don’t think enough thanks were given to our farmers.

“They kept us fed and the Coles family especially made sure that families in the area had everything they needed when times were tough.

“This is a great way to thank them for all that they have done for us and to help them rebuild.”

In a post on Facebook earlier this week the family described the fire as “devastating” but said they had been “touched” by the support they’ve had from the community.

“We want to say thank you to the emergency services and to everyone who has been here helping; family, friends, neighbours, they’ve all been outstanding,” they said.

“We really do appreciate it. The messages from people and donations have been overwhelming.”

Lenka said she wants to raise as much as possible to help the family to rebuild and she would encourage people to donate what they can to help.

“We have had donations from families from all backgrounds. We’ve had donations from £5 to £150” Lenka said.

“Even families who struggle have donated so please donate what you can to help the Coles.”

To donate visitwww.gofundme.com and search for Brent House Milk Farm.