Elgin family which lost everything to early morning house fire 'overwhelmed' by generosity of strangers ahead of Christmas
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AN ELGIN family which lost everything to a house fire have been 'overwhelmed' by the generosity of strangers ahead of Christmas.
Raymond Miller, his partner Karen McPhail and their son Liam were left homeless when a blaze broke out at their home on North Guildry Street in the early hours of Tuesday, October 18.
When the fire was extinguished, it became clear that the family had not only lost their home but also their most cherished mementos.
The local community rallied round the family following the traumatic incident to raise over £5700 in a matter of days.
Many other people from around Moray were also quick to offer help.
But with Christmas fast approaching, the family, who are still in emergency accommodation, have been missing home now more than ever.
However, they have received a timely reminder of the kindness of strangers after a generous donation from a local business owner.
"Christmas has made it harder," Raymond said.
"Obviously we had all of our Christmas decorations in our spare room, personalised ornaments for the tree and things like that.
"It really is missing simple things like that that get you going a little bit.
"But we're going to get a whole turkey with all the trimmings from I.G. Thomson butchers in Keith.
"We can't thank them enough for the donation because it means we can make the most of a bad situation now.
"I just get emotional thinking about what people have been doing for us. It's brilliant."
Rebekah Stott, who owns I.G. Thomson, will donate three turkeys to people in need this Christmas.
But she selected Raymond and the family after reading about their situation.
"The family were basically left with the pyjamas on their back," Rebekah said.
"I read what happened to them and it just made me sob my heart out.
"Even when I phoned Karen to say that I would donate one of the turkeys to her family she became quite emotional.
"I know what it's like because I've been in a fire myself so it's nice to be able to help out."
Rebekah's kind gesture has helped the family get into the Christmas spirit despite a turbulent two months.
And the family are hopeful of moving out of emergency accommodation in the New Year.
"We're on the council waiting list for a new home," Raymond said.
"But we're more optimistic now about getting a bit of good news in the New Year.
"It was just a horrible experience but we're just thankful for the support from people like Rebekah and everyone else who has helped us out.
"We're really thankful that we can settle down a little bit over Christmas."
