My name is Elaine and on behalf of all of Exminster and Sallys friends we are raising money for our good friend Sally who has suffered devastating damage to her home. This is her story in her own words.

On Friday 20th February 2026, my world came crashing down.

Not my entire world, but my home of very nearly 25 years. Orchard Cottage. My safe space.

After 50+ days of continual rain, the 200 year old cob walls had had enough. They had absorbed as much moisture as they could bear, without the opportunity for evaporation on dry days, and the gable end of the cottage collapsed into a heap.

I’m pleased to say none of us were injured, and we have been so touched by the outpouring of offers of help, food parcels, alternative accommodation etc.

Thank you.

We were lucky enough to have swift action from a local builder who cleared the rubble, allowing scaffolding to be erected within a couple of days. It has since been propped and sheeted to try and keep the weather out and prevent further damage.

We have lost use of Ellie’s room, the family bathroom and dining room for the foreseeable future.

After 3 weeks of extreme worry, numerous telephone calls, emails and meetings and unnecessary delays on their part; yesterday my insurers, Aviva, dismissed my claim. They cite a number of reasons - it didn’t happen during a named storm: the wind speed wasn’t in excess of 55 mph, and various other technicalities.

In the early hours of this morning, Friday 13th, the property suffered further damage. Last night’s wind and rain brought more rubble down, and what was left of the chimney stack collapsed.

I am waiting for advice on the next steps to preserve what’s left of the building.

I am of course devastated, and trying to process how on earth I can move forward from here.

If you know any experts in this field - surveyors, insurance experts, structural engineers etc I’d be grateful for recommendations.

Thank you again for all your messages and offers of help and support. We’re truly grateful.

Please forgive me though if I don’t respond to messages. I’m utterly exhausted, but will endeavour to provide updates here when I can.

Sally xx