A fundraising campaign to help a young, local family from Midsomer Norton who lost everything in a house fire last week, including their beloved dog, has seen the community rally round to help them rebuild their lives.

Last Thursday, firefighters were called to a house on Redfield Road in the town. The fire began whilst the Gould family were out, returning to find crews attempting to break down their front door, not knowing if the family were inside. Their dog, Bruce, however, was.

Firefighters entered the building to retrieve the family’s rescued Staffie, who was found hiding under a bed upstairs. Outside the house, the road was closed off, while the crew attempted to resuscitate Bruce with CPR, and the help of a local vet, but sadly, he did not survive.

It is unclear what caused the fire at the time of writing, but it has been reported that a water pipe in the house also burst, flooding the downstairs area and causing further damage to the property.

Hannah Gould commended the efforts of the fire department last week. She said: “The firefighters were incredible, and I can’t thank them enough for trying to save our beloved dog, and for going the extra mile.”

Within hours, a JustGiving page had been set up to initially help raise £200 for the family by kindhearted Gemma Gamester, to help the family and their two young children try and enjoy Christmas following the recent tragedy that destroyed many of their belongings and left the house uninhabitable. Donations can be made online at: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/in-memory-of-bruce

The page has already received over £2,000 in donations, and the target has been raised to £3,000.

Local DJ, Geoff Urch, a friend of the family, will also be hosting a fundraising disco on Friday, 22nd December at Mardons Social Club, Midsomer Norton, from 7.30 p.m. – 11.30 p.m. Although entry is free, there will be a raffle on the night to help raise money for the Gould family. Any prizes would be very welcome, please either bring them along on the night or email: [email protected]