A BID to raise £1,000 for the Kington family who lost everything in a fire has surpassed the target.

Nursery nurse Hazel Fitzpatrick, who mounted an appeal for the Xiourrouppas family, said that townspeople have been “amazing” in rallying to raise money to help Michael and Leoni and their children, Louis, aged 18, and Johnny, 14, start to rebuild their lives.

“The fundraising has reached target and gone over, it’s now reached £1,030,” said Ms Fitzpatrick.

The blaze, which spread to two adjoining businesses, left the roof above the fish and chip shop takeaway and the family home unstable.

Now that scaffolding is in place, the High Street has reopened to traffic, bringing relief to traders.

Ms Fitzpatrick said the Xiourrouppas family, who are staying with relatives, have been “overwhelmed” at the response to their plight.

“They have no plans as yet, their lives are still on hold at the minute,” she added.

Further fundraising plans are in the pipeline, including a stall at Market Hall from Monday.

l Anyone wanting to support the appeal can go to the JustGiving Crowdfunding Page.