A young mother and her four children lost 'almost everything they owned' after a devastating house fire, believed to have been started by a faulty electrical charger, destroyed their home in Bethel, near Caernarfon. The blaze broke out on Tuesday afternoon, 15 July, at a property on Bro Rhos, prompting a response from firefighters from Caernarfon, Bangor and Colwyn Bay. The road was closed while emergency services tackled the flames.
Community launches urgent appeal
In the wake of the tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign was set up by Hannah Hughes to help the family start afresh. By 1.10pm on Wednesday, more than £7,800 had been raised towards a £10,000 target. Local residents are also collecting physical donations of clothing, toys and household goods, as well as seeking urgent temporary housing for the family, reports North Wales Live.
In a statement posted on the GoFundMe page, Hannah Hughes wrote: 'In just a few heartbreaking moments, the lives of a young mum and her four children were changed forever. Today, their family home in Bethel, near Caernarfon, was devastated by a house fire. While we are incredibly thankful that they are safe, they have lost almost everything they owned. Their home, their belongings, their treasured memories, and the sense of security that every family deserves have all been taken from them.'
Family details and immediate needs
The family consists of two girls, aged 13 and eight, and two boys, aged 10 and four. The GoFundMe statement continued: 'No parent ever imagines having to tell their children that they have nothing left to go home to. This young family is now facing the unimaginable - trying to comfort four frightened children while wondering what tomorrow will bring. They urgently need our help as they begin the long journey of rebuilding their lives.'
Hughes urged the community to donate financially or provide physical items: 'Every donation, no matter how small, will help provide the essentials they now desperately need - clothing, food, toiletries, school items, furniture, appliances, and the everyday necessities that most of us take for granted. The funds will also help ease the financial pressure while they secure temporary accommodation and begin to rebuild their lives.'
How the community can help
Donations of children's clothing, toys, bikes, furniture, appliances, and other household essentials are being coordinated through the Facebook community page Cymuned Bethel, or by contacting Caffi'r Bedol in Bethel. A collection pot for cash donations has also been placed at Bedol Bethel. The family is urgently seeking a house to rent in Bethel, either through a private landlord or housing association, and any leads are greatly appreciated.
Hughes added: 'Bethel has always been a community that looks after its own. Now is the time to come together once again. Whether you can donate £5, £50, offer an item, or simply share this fundraiser, you are helping to give this family hope at a time when they need it most.'
Fire service warning
A North Wales Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: 'We were called at 15:05 yesterday (15 July) to a property fire in Bethel. Firefighters from Caernarfon, Bangor and Colwyn Bay attended. The fire is believed to have been caused by a faulty charger. This incident is a reminder that electrical fires can happen at any time. Chargers can become very hot, so never leave items charging unattended or for long periods. Always switch off the charger at the plug, even when it is not connected to a device. Do not mix and match chargers or use aftermarket versions; always use the charger supplied with the device. Follow the manufacturer's instructions when using electrical items and switch them off and unplug them before going to bed. Be prepared for a fire by ensuring you have working smoke alarms in your home and keeping escape routes clear so you and your family can exit your home as quickly as possible.'
