ILMINSTER NEWS: Tesco shoppers support flat fire family

THE Tesco store in Ilminster has handed over a cheque for £310 to a local family who found themselves without a home after fire severely damaged their flat in the town.

It was back on the afternoon of January 7, 2016, when a fire broke out in the flat of Adam and Liz Woodard in West Street.

Thankfully Adam was at work and Liz was out with their two young sons, Bertie and George, at the time of the fire and were unharmed.

But they lost virtually everything in the blaze and are now slowly trying to put their lives back together.

The Ilminster community has rallied to their support and given them lots of donations of items which can help to rebuild their home, plus they have received the backing of some local businesses.

PHOTO – TOP: Liz Woodard (centre) and her two sons Bertie and George with Tesco personnel manager Alison Stanbury (left) and store community champion Helena Jones outside the Tesco store in Ilminster.

PHOTO – RIGHT: Flashback to January 7, 2016, and the flat fire in West Street, Ilminster.

While the Tesco store – led by community champion Helena Jones – held a fundraising day for the family which led to a collection of £310.

Liz said: “We’ve been overwhelmed by the support, kindness and generosity of the Ilminster people. It has been truly amazing and we’d like to thank Tesco and their customers for this amazing donation – it’s all very humbling.”

But Liz and Adam are still searching for somewhere to call home – having spent time staying with families and friends.

So far they have been unable to find anywhere which is available or within their price range to stay in Ilminster.

They have been offered accommodation elsewhere, but would love to stay in the town.

Liz said that after all the support they had received from the Ilminster people they would really like to stay within that community.

If anyone can help with the housing problem – please contact Ilminster Press by emailing ilminsterpress@gmail.com .

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