A family in Old Colwyn, Conwy, has been left with only the clothes they were wearing after a devastating house fire on Monday afternoon. The blaze, which broke out at approximately 12:30pm on the Peulwys estate, followed a reported explosion. No injuries were reported, but the fire tragically claimed the life of the family's pet cat.
Community Rallies After Fire
Dave Beman, Jodie Dawe, and their son Alfie lost everything in the blaze. The sole positive has been the overwhelming response from neighbours and the wider Old Colwyn community. A collection was swiftly organised at the local community centre, with donations of clothing and other essential items pouring in.
Friend Helen Lehart launched a GoFundMe page to raise money for the family, which has already garnered around £3,000 in donations. Helen said: "On what should have been an ordinary day, our dear friends Jodie, Dave, and their son Alfie lost everything in a devastating house fire. Their home was completely destroyed, and tragically, they also lost their beloved cat. In a matter of moments, their entire world was turned upside down, leaving them with nothing but the clothes on their backs."
Fundraising and Emergency Response
Helen added: "We are raising funds to help this wonderful family begin the long journey of rebuilding their lives. Every donation, no matter how big or small, will go towards replacing essential clothing, household items, furniture, and everything else they need to start again." She also expressed gratitude: "The kindness and generosity people have shown at this really tragic time for my amazing friends has honestly blown me away."
Five fire crews attended to tackle the blaze, which also caused damage to an adjacent property. Fire investigators returned to the scene on Tuesday to determine the cause. Cartrefi Conwy, the housing association overseeing properties on the estate, confirmed they are in contact with the affected families.
