Residents in Freshwater were left devastated this morning as the impact of the fire at the Wessex Cancer Research Trust in Moa Place became evident.
Fire service were called to the shop just before 7pm last night after a neighbour reported seeing flames and smoke coming from the building. The fire was extinguished within about an hour.
Sally Hall: “Heartbreaking”
Chief Executive of Wessex Cancer Trust, Sally Hall, told OnTheWight that the impact of the fire was heartbreaking for all involved with the shop.
As those who know the charity shop will agree, it was not just somewhere to donate and buy goods, it was a community hub. One resident felt so upset by it all and how the volunteers must be feeling that she took a bunch of flowers along this morning to help cheer them up.
Lost 80% of stock
Sally went on to say that the fire, which isn’t thought to have been started maliciously, was a tragedy and deeply distressing for all. Loss adjusters will be assessing the situation over the next couple of days, although Sally believed they had probably lost about 80% of stock to fire and smoke damage.
It’s important to note that all monies raised in the Freshwater shop stay on the Island. It is then used to support patients and families having cancer treatment. Therefore any loss of income to the shop directly affects Islanders.
Appeal for donations and storage
Once the loss adjusters have done their stuff, the big clearout will take place and redecoration of the premises will get underway.
In the meantime, the Trust are on the lookout for somewhere that donated items can be stored. If you are able to help, please get in touch and we’ll pass on your details.
Once somewhere has been secured, there’ll be a big drive to gather donations ready in time for the grand re-opening.
