A FAMILY who lost everything when a fire ripped through their home are heading off on holiday, thanks to the kindness of neighbours.

Lisa Drake, 32, her partner Michael Sanigar, 33, and their children – Imogen-May, six, Bailey- Joe, three, and Scarlett- Rose, one – have been in temporary accommodation since the blaze in Beeleigh Close, Colchester.

Today, they will be able to take a break from rebuilding their lives to enjoy a long weekend in Clacton, thanks to donations from neighbours and firms.

Read the full story in today's Gazette.