Hello, my name is Dave. My wife Dawn and I have created this Go Fund me page on behalf of one of the family's from our children's school and football team.

On the 3 June, Harry, his mum Emma and her partner Patrick were due to return from a short break.

On their way home, Emma & Patrick received a devastating phone call. They were advised not to return to the house with Harry present, as their family home had been destroyed by a fire.

Patrick and Emma have three children between them. Luke (22), Mikey (17), and Harry (9). The boys are well thought of within the football and rugby community. Mikey plays Rugby for Oulton Raiders, Luke plays for East Leeds Rugby club. Harry is a budding young footballer playing for Amaranth Crossgates Football Club. They are now unable to stay together as a family unit, with all rooms and possessions having been destroyed.

The fire was caused accidentally by a well meaning family member, who was carrying out some work at the property. A lapse in judgement and concentration ended in disaster. A gas canister that was stored in the garage exploded and caught fire. The gas boiler was located in close proximity which inevitably exploded. The garage was attached to the house, causing fire to rip through the property. The fire also caused damage to a neighbouring property and vehicle. It's a miracle no one was injured.

Everyone's worst nightmare to have your home and all its contents destroyed. They have lost everything!

Patrick contacted the insurance company, to be told the sickening news that the policy had lapsed in March this year and they had not renewed the policy. After he explained the situation, the insurers referred him to his policy details. The details confirmed it's unlikely they would have paid out anyway, due to the patio gas canister having been stored incorrectly.

This has left a family homeless. They are relying on the generosity of family and friends to offer them a place to stay and get back on their feet.

Patrick and Emma were somewhat hesitant to allow us to post this, as they are an independent and proud couple. They have graciously accepted the offer of help, as the family can’t do this alone.

Patrick and Emma are both self employed. They are having to juggle work, contend with the devastation caused by the fire, whilst raising a young child. Harry is unaware of the extent of the damage caused. If any of your children know and play with Harry, we ask that you be mindful of talking to them sensitively about the severity of the damage.

Whilst Harry knows there’s been a fire, they can’t bring themselves to tell him just yet with his birthday around the corner, that all of his belongings, his clothes, his toys have been destroyed in the fire.

Please can we ask you to spare whatever you can. Any donations, no matter how big or small are graciously received and will go a long way in helping them rebuild their home and get back on their feet.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. Please share this far and wide. Thank you.