A FAMILY has launched a campaign to raise funds for a woman who has been left “shattered” after her home was destroyed in a massive blaze.

Marie Waters, 47, was at work when the fire started at her lodge in London Road, Clacton, on Saturday, April 21, at about 5.10pm

The property was completely gutted by the inferno.

It is thought Mrs Waters’s pet cat died in the fire, which probably started due to an electrical fault with a second-hand fridge.

Family and friends have launched a fundraising campaign to help Miss Waters, who has been left homeless and has been sleeping on a friend’s sofa.

Gazette:

  • Smoke - Kenny Johnson captured a picture of the blaze while on a pleasure flight over Clacton

Marie’s sister Jack O’Kane said her sister is still in shock.

She added: “Marie’s life has been shattered by the devastating fire at her home, which she only moved into three weeks ago.

“Marie was at work when the fire started but tragically her beloved cat Meme appears to have perished.

“She tried to get into the blazing lodge to save Meme and had to be dragged away.

“Marie has been left with nothing but the clothes on her back, the contents of her bag and her car.

“All her possessions, mementos of her life, as well as all of her documentation, have gone.”

Gazette:

  • Aftermath - The fire destroyed the property in London Road, Clacton

Mrs O’Kane said the family have set up a fundraising web page following offers of support.

She said: “Anyone who knows Marie, will know she puts everyone else before herself.

“She is one of the most giving people we know and she expects nothing in return.

“Marie is working full time and pays her way in life, but the scale of the practical items that must be replaced would overwhelm us all.

“Unfortunately, Marie had not got around to getting insurance cover for her belongings, having just moved in.

“No amount of financial help will ever replace Meme or the personal, sentimental belongings that she’s lost, but knowing that people are willing to support her would greatly ease the burden of the practical process of starting over.

“We love our sister very much and we wish that we were in a position to take care of everything for her, but we need help.”

To donate, go to gofundme.com/marie-waters.