Townsfolk have rallied round the staff of The Red Lion following a fire which ripped through the pub, destroying the staff quarters and kitchen.

An online fundraising page set up by regular Wendy Mansfield to help replace furniture and staff possessions has raised £850 so far - and included a £100 donation from staff at The Star.

When the fire hit at the start of July non-one was hurt, but staff lost furniture and possessions. The kitchen was particularly badly damaged.

She said one member of staff had lost almost everything he owned.

"Sofa, bed, bedding, towels etc: it's crazy how much you have and don't realise until it's gone," she said.

Wendy told Nub News the response to her Justgiving appeal had been heartwarming.

And she voiced 'massive' thanks to the Star, as well as Paula Spencer.

"She donated an iron, towels, all sorts, and even her mum gave money and she's a pensioner who hasn't got much," she said. "People have been wonderful. Lots of my work colleagues at Grange Management, who don't even know the pub, donated. The pub is still temporarily closed while the damage is assessed and repaired.

Click here to donate to the appeal.