Fundraiser set up to help flat fire residents

WHITHORN residents have rallied to help two of their own after a fire devastated two flats on New Year’s Day.

The blaze was spotted on George Street at 11.46 pm last Thursday.

Explaining more, a Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “We were alerted at 11.46 pm on Thursday, 1 January, to reports of a dwelling fire at George Street, Whithorn.

“Operations Control mobilised four appliances to the scene, and firefighters extinguished a fire affecting a two-storey building.

“There were no casualties, and crews left the scene at around 4 pm on Friday, 2 January, after ensuring the area was made safe.”

In the days since the fire, a community fundraiser has been created to help the two elderly residents who lost their homes.

Photographer Michael Gault created the go fund me page to help the two residents get ‘a new start’. He said: “They need a new start and I think this is the best way to go, I’ve heard so much about community spirit and would like the community to pull together for these two men.”

In total the go fund me page has raised £1810 (at time of publication) of its £2000 goal, with Michael describing the support from residents as ‘outstanding’. He added: “I just wanted to thank all of the generous people who have kindly donated to this great cause and the outstanding money that’s been raised so far.

“It will be highly appreciated.”