A FUNDRAISING appeal has been launched after a ‘tragic’ fire in Baughurst caused a family to lose everything they own including much-loved pets.

Firefighters were called to the scene of a static caravan at a farm on Browninghill Green in Baughurst at 10.46am on Saturday (May 1).

On arrival, crews from Basingstoke and Tadley found the home ‘well alight’ and requested support from Rushmoor, Fleet, and Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service.

A Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service Spokesperson said: “A couple of dogs were removed prior to the arrival of firefighters, but two parrots were unable to be saved and a number of cats were unaccounted for.

“Crews liaised with the RSPCA and Environment Agency before the blaze was extinguished using 10 sets of breathing apparatus, three jets and four hose reels.”

Investigation officers attended to conduct an investigation, before crews left the scene following the stop message at 2.33pm.

Now, the occupant’s family has set up a fundraising appeal on GoFundMe to help them get the essentials they need.

Posting to the page, Jess Bushnell explained that her parents, Phaedra and Alan, and younger sisters, Franki and Sydney, “lost everything” when their home caught fire and was completely destroyed.

“We have kindly been offered some help with clothing and a temporary touring caravan to sleep in, but I’d like to try and get them as much as possible and would appreciate any donation no matter how small,” said Jess.

She continued: “They have a half-built house which I’d love to be able to raise some money to try and make it habitable, so they can at least move into there and try and rebuild their lives as best they can after this unfortunate event.”

Jess added that it was more than just material things lost, but also cherished family items and beloved animals.

“We tried our best to enter the property to try and save our much-loved family pets and some belongings, but unfortunately the fire had completely taken hold and we were unable to get them and anything out,” she said.

“We are all in complete shock and absolutely devastated that this has happened.”

The appeal, which was set up on Sunday (May 2) has already exceeded its £1,000 goal, raising £2185 at time of writing.

More more information, or to make a donation, visit: https://uk.gofundme.com/f/help-after-tragic-home-fire