Devastated Sunderland couple lose everything in horrific fire: Here's how you can help them

A devastated Sunderland couple watched in horror as a fire ruined every possession they had.

A fundraising campaign is under way to support Alan and Liz Hogan who escaped with just their winter coats, mobile phones and their two dogs when the blaze spread from the attic of the house next door.

It then went through the roof of their home in Tuscan Road at 2am on Sunday during Storm Boelo. The couple could only watch in the pouring rain from the street below as their belongings were destroyed.

Liz, 51, lost all of her cherished mementoes of her late parents Philip and Georgia Rafferty who were tenants in the house before Liz took it over.

“All my memories were in that house, I think I am still trying to process it all,” she said. “On top of everything, that is something that I can never get back.”

Alan lost all of the camera equipment that he used as a gifted photographer who volunteers his time to capture milestone events and special occasions for friends, family, and community members - at zero cost.

Their friend Neil Christey has set up a GoFundMe page to support the couple who he described as ‘an absolute pair of angels. I am reaching out to ask people to support two of the most selfless people I know.”

Both Liz and Alan, who is 52, work in social care, often on night shifts, and look after vulnerable and elderly people. Liz also hosts free sound-healing sessions for people going through difficult times.

Recalling the drama, Liz said: “I was working in a bedroom on an overnight shift and I smelled burning. My husband went out and saw next door’s roof ablaze. Then a neighbour told us ‘yours is away as well.’

“At the time, all we were thinking was ‘just get out. Within minutes, the whole thing had gone up. We saw our bedroom ablaze.”

Liz was close to tears as she told the Sunderland Echo of the cost of the blaze. She said: “The top floor is all fire damaged . The water has caused the ceiling to collapse and everything downstairs is either under rubble or is water damaged.”

Despite it all, the couple have taken some consolation from the huge outpouring of love and support from the community.

Within an hour, Gentoo had arranged for a hotel for the couple and supported them since.

Their friend Neil started the GoFundMe page with a target of £7,000.

More than £1,000 has been raised so far to help towards immediate essentials such as warm clothing, everyday shoes, toiletries and dog supplies such as food, beds and leashes.

It will also go towards temporary living expenses and the cost of rebuilding their lives, including furniture, bedding, cookware and essential household appliances once permanent accommodation is secured.

Liz said: “People have not got much money themselves. When you think that they have gone out of their way to help us, it is humbling. It restores your faith in people.”

Show your support for Liz and Alan by donating at https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-liz-and-alan-and-their-pups-after-a-tragic-house-fire