A fundraiser has been launched for a family who lost almost everything they owned in a fire at their 300-year-old thatched home.
The blaze broke out last Monday at the Lindholm family home near Bracknagh in Co Offaly.
Fire services and gardai were called to the scene and after several hours, the fire was brought under control but the house was gutted along with their business Spinning Wheel Blooms which was located at the same site.
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The fundraiser, Help us rebuild our home and restore Irish heritage, has so far raised €5,645 raised of a €200,000 goal.
Laura Lindholm speaking on the crowdfunding website explained: “On the evening of February 6, our family’s world turned upside down.
“Our beloved over 300-year-old thatched cottage caught fire during a power outage in the local area. The fire services did what they could and luckily we are here to tell what happened because the ending could have been very different.
"We lost pretty much everything. We only managed to save a few important personal items but in reality we were only left with the clothes we were wearing at the time. Our two daughters didn’t even have shoes. It was our home and an emerging business.”
Ms Lindholm added: ”The thatch insurance issue has lately been getting a lot of press and the government did a survey to try to resolve this issue.
"The aftermath is devastating, but there is hope with the possible help of our amazing community to rebuild this thatched cottage loved by so many.
“The messages we have received have been heartwarming and all offers for help are more than greatly appreciated. We thank you from the bottoms of our hearts for anything you can give to rebuild this piece of heritage. Laura, Dan, Juniper and Darcy”.
One person who donated said: “Unfortunately we too know the terrifying effects of fire, hope you and your children are ok. We found people are so good to help and it really does help, take care.”
Mr Lindholm added: “If anyone is in a situation to help we would be so grateful. Everyone has been rallying around and sharing their past with the house. At the moment we are exploring our options. We are all safe which is the main thing as are the dogs. Everything is up in the air. We have a mixture of emotions at the moment. We are going from day to day.”
A Department of Housing report on insurance for thatched properties found that just over half of owners thatched have house insurance in place due to issues getting cover.
People seeking quotes are being offered premiums for more than €2,500 with many being unable to obtain insurance as the only Irish firm providing cover stopped offering new policies last year as its underwriter had reached its quota.
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