A fundraising page set up after a stable fire killed 12 horses has smashed its target within hours of opening.

The page had a target of £1,000 to raise money for Elmwood Equestrian Centre, in Maldon Road, Burnham, following the fire.

That total has already been reached following donations from residents touched by the tragic news.

Alex Longhurst, of South Woodham Ferrers, set up the page and said the response was overwhelming.

She said: “I was at Elmwood for three years loaning a horse name Nayeli, who luckily survived the fire.

“I set up the page as the yard is very close to my heart, and many of my friends are still there, or had horses there who sadly passed away.

“The response from the public has been amazing. My initial aim was to reach £1,000 by the end of the week, but within two hours we had reached £1,300 and within four hours we reached £3,000.

“I would like to thank everyone but the response has been so overwhelming I haven’t had time yet.”

The money will be used to help rebuild the yard, as well as going towards bedding and supplies for the surviving horses and contributing to vets’ bills.

As of Tuesday morning, the page had raised nearly £12,000.

To donate, visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/alex-longhurst.

The equestrian community have come out to support the centre following the fire.

A statement from Rawreth Equestrian Centre said: "Our thoughts and sympathy are with all those who tragically have lost their horse or pony in the fire at Elmwood last night.

"Donations of spare rugs etc can be taken to Birkett Hall in Woodham for anyone who has some that they no longer need."

Deanswood Equestrian Centre added: "Absolutely devastating news to wake up to this morning. Our deepest sympathies go out to the Elmwood Equestrian centre who last night had a barn fire which resulted in the loss of horses’ lives.

"We have seen a lot of offers to take rugs and bits to them this week, lovely to see everyone coming together. However they will also need money, for vets’ bills and to provide new shelters for the remaining horses. Please visit the page and give what you can."

Beechwood Equestrian Centre also published a statement: "It is with deep sadness that the Beechwood team have learnt of the devastating yard fire. Our heartfelt condolences go out to all those affected by the tragedy. We are thinking of you at this terrible time.

"To help those at Elmwood, we are opening a drop off post for any donations of equipment that may be needed. Suggestions include, but aren’t limited to, rugs, headcollars, lead reins, haynets, boots and bandages, first aid supplies and buckets.

"Donations can be left at Beechwood reception between now and Wednesday morning, when any items will be delivered. If the front door is locked please leave in the patio area.

"In addition, any proceeds from tomorrow’s clear round jumping will be donated by means of feed vouchers or hay. So please come along tomorrow to support our fundraiser, to in turn support those at Elmwood."