Fundraiser launched after family in Offaly lose everything in fire at historic thatched house

A fundraiser has been launched after a family in Offaly lost almost everything they owned in a fire at a historic thatched house.

Fire services the scene of the accidental fire on Monday, January 6 near Bracknagh at the 300 year old thatched cottage.

After a number of hours, the fire was extinguished but the cottage was gutted in the blaze. 

A fundraiser has now been launched through Go Fund Me to help the family rebuild their home and their emerging business at the site. Over €5,000 has already been raised.

The fundraiser, which can be accessed by CLICKING HERE states:

"On the evening of February 6, our family’s world turned upside down. Our loved over 300 year old thatched cottage caught fire during a power outage on the local area. The fire services did what they could and luckily we are here to tell what happened because the ending could have been very different.

"We lost pretty much everything. We only managed to save few important personal items but in reality we were only left with the clothes we were wearing at the time. Our two daughters didn’t even have shoes. It was our home and an emerging business.

"The thatch insurance issue has lately been getting a lot of press and the government did a survey to try to resolve this issue but it’s currently all still in the air without any decisions or supports.

"The aftermath is devastating, but there is hope with the possible help of our amazing community to rebuild this thatched cottage loved by so many. The messages we have received have been heartwarming and all offers for help are more than greatly appreciated.

"We thank you from the bottoms of our hearts for anything you can give to rebuild this piece of heritage. 

"Laura, Dan, Juniper & Darcy"