Neighbours in Heatherfields Way have rallied around a family whose home was severely damaged by a fire earlier this month.

The blaze destroyed the entire first floor of the Dickerson family’s property in Bordon, leaving every upstairs room damaged and forcing them into temporary accommodation for up to 12 months while extensive repairs are carried out.

Neighbour Satu Rohiainen said residents acted quickly when the fire broke out on Tuesday, February 3.

“It was early in the morning when we saw smoke. Stepping outside, we realised the house was on fire. People ran down the street to check if anyone was inside before four or five fire engines arrived. They were there a long time because the fire was very severe,” she said.

Homeowner Helen Dickerson said she received a call from her daughter, who had been working from home, reporting a fire in the airing cupboard.

“By the time I’d driven home, the front window had blown and there were flames coming out of the house. The entire upper floor has been destroyed. Every single room is damaged,” she said.

The family are currently staying in an Airbnb while surveyors assess the damage. The roof will need to be completely replaced and some structural beams have been charred.

“It’s absolutely heartbreaking. We designed that house from the neck up. All we want to do is go home,” she added.

The cause is believed to be electrical, but the extent of the damage means investigators may never determine the exact source.

In response, residents launched a fundraising page aiming to raise £500, but donations quickly surpassed the target.

“The support has been totally overwhelming from neighbours, family and friends,” Helen Dickerson said. “It makes something heart-wrenching just that little bit more bearable.”

All funds raised will go directly to the family. To donate, visit the GoFundMe page titled Supporting our Neighbour After a House fire.