A range of projects will get underway in Bridgwater in memory of three blaze victims thanks to the Bridgwater Mercury’s Lily’s Fund appeal.

A children’s play area, youth centre music facilities, benches, and a memorial fishing cup will all now be created as a result of the fund.

The appeal was launched by the Mercury in the wake of the tragedy which claimed the lives of eight-year-old Lily Almond-Burchell, Laura Burchell, (14), and Jamie Pursey, (25).

Readers and supporters rallied round to back Lily’s Fund and raise money to help the appeal create a permanent memorial in honour of the three young people.

Kind-hearted Mercury readers pulled out all the stops to back the appeal and organised a range of fundraising events, which helped the appeal raise a massive £6,336.

Mercury editor-in-chief Ken Bird said: “The support for Lily’s Fund has been phenomenal and I am pleased that the projects will lead to schemes which not only reflect the interests of Lily, Jamie and Laura but will also bring enjoyment to many people in the future.”

Collections were held in pubs, clubs and supermarkets, while donations from car boot sales, a cowboy and indian show, sponsored walks, and Carnival Old Folks Show were among the highlights of the events held.

Staff at the Mercury also joined the fundraising drive by taking part in the annual Rotary Charities Walk to boost the appeal funds.

Meanwhile dozens of individual donations, ranging from a few pounds to an anonymous cash donation of £105, were made in support of the appeal.

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