Senior Powys fire officer loses family home in devastating blaze

A fundraiser launched for a Powys firefighter and his family who have lost “virtually everything” after a fire at their home this week has already raised £31,000.

Crews from Brecon Fire Station were mobilised last Wednesday night to a serious domestic fire, only to face a heart-breaking scenario.

The burning property belonged to one of their own, group manager Phil Morris.

Tragically, the fire has left the family having lost virtually everything. Their home and possessions have been devastated, and they have been left with little more than the clothes they had with them.

Phil had spent the summer leading crews through fierce wildfires across remote Welsh mountains.

Colleagues have been left utterly devastated by the incident.

Sharing the tragic news, firefighter Steve Covington expressed the deep emotional toll on the crew, stating, 'this has finished us off'.

He said: “Firefighters are used to turning up on the worst days of people's lives to make a terrible situation better.

“However, crews admitted that when the emergency call is for a highly respected colleague and friend who has dedicated his career to helping others, it truly hits home.

He added: “GM Morris has devoted so much of his life and career to the Fire and Rescue Service, helping others when they need it most. He has been an inspiration to so many of us and an incredible fire officer, colleague and friend.

“Now it’s our opportunity to be there for him and his family.

“The community have set up this JustGiving page to try and take away even a small amount of the pressure they are facing. The money raised will help with the immediate essentials and give the family some support as they begin the incredibly difficult process of getting back on their feet and rebuilding their lives.

“If you can spare anything at all, no matter how small, it would mean an enormous amount. If you’re unable to donate, simply sharing this post and the JustGiving link would be hugely appreciated.

“When someone has spent their life helping others, hopefully we can now come together and return some.”

Another colleague said: “For a family, a home is so much more than four walls. It’s where children grow, birthdays and holidays are celebrated, meals are shared, and precious family memories are made.

“To suddenly lose that sense of home, comfort, and security is something no family should have to face alone.

“As they begin the overwhelming process of putting their lives back together, we would love to show them just how much their community cares. We are raising money to help with clothing, food, temporary accommodation, everyday essentials, and the many unexpected costs they will face in the weeks and months ahead.”

The community has responded fantastically raising over £30,000 in one week stepping up to support a man who has spent his life protecting the public.

To donate visit https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/donna-and-phillip-morris.