A Gloucester family has been left without possessions after a bonfire is believed to have ignited the rear of their two‑storey Tredworth home and spread inside, destroying almost everything the household owned.
Blaze broke out in the early evening
The incident occurred at about 11:30 BST on 12 August, when the mother, her six‑year‑old daughter and two‑year‑old son were inside the property. All three escaped, along with the family dog, and no physical injuries were reported by Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service.
Firefighters say the blaze appears to have started in a bonfire at the rear of the property and travelled into the building. The family’s privately rented house has suffered extensive smoke damage and their belongings have been lost.
Community responds to urgent need
Neighbours were among the first on the scene and helped get the children to safety. The family are now staying with friends and relatives while repairs are planned.
- Location: Tredworth, Gloucester
- Date and time of incident: 12 August, about 11:30 BST
- People affected: a mother, daughter (6), son (2) and the family dog
When the mother was allowed back into the house she described the scene as shocking, saying everything had been blackened by smoke. She added that a lack of contents insurance meant she had lost all of the family’s belongings.
"When allowed back into the property, I was in 'complete shock' to see everything had turned black," she said.
Friends and neighbours quickly mobilised to provide practical support. A close friend of the family explained that volunteers had organised themselves to tackle different needs and praised the local response.
"Between us we've hopefully tried to do everything we can to help," the friend said.
Housing and recovery questions for tenants
The family live in a privately rented property and have no set timeframe for when repairs might be completed, nor when they may be able to return. The situation highlights the precarious position of renters when disaster strikes — particularly if they lack contents insurance.
Local housing officers and the landlord are ordinarily involved in arranging repairs to rented properties after fires; meanwhile, immediate needs such as clothing, bedding and basic household goods are being met by friends and family. The community’s efforts have been described as "absolutely amazing" by the mother.
What residents should take away
While this incident is under investigation by the fire service, it is a reminder of how quickly outside fires can pose a danger to nearby buildings and the people inside them. Residents are encouraged to:
- Keep bonfires at a safe distance from buildings and combustible materials.
- Supervise any outside fire at all times and ensure it is fully extinguished.
- Consider contents insurance to protect household goods where possible, especially for tenants.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Incident date | 12 August |
| Approximate time | 11:30 BST |
| Location | Tredworth, Gloucester |
| Occupants | Mother, daughter (6), son (2), family dog |
Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed the origin is believed to be a bonfire and has been carrying out enquiries. In the meantime, neighbours and community groups have stepped in to offer immediate help while the family awaits a timeline for repairs and a potential return to their home.
The episode has prompted an outpouring of local support, but also serves as a cautionary example about the risks posed by seemingly routine outdoor fires and the financial vulnerability of households without insurance.
