Fundraiser Surpasses £425,000 for Father After Family Tragedy

A devastating house fire in Brimscombe, near Stroud, has led to an overwhelming outpouring of support for a grieving father, Tom Shearman. On December 26, 2025, the fire tragically claimed the lives of Shearman’s wife, Fionnghuala, known as Nu, and their two young children, seven-year-old Eve and four-year-old Ohner. In the aftermath of this heartbreaking incident, a GoFundMe page was established, which has now raised over £426,000 within just over a week.

Tom Shearman, an officer with the Gloucestershire Constabulary, described the event as his “darkest of hours.” He bravely attempted to save his family from the flames but was forced back due to the fire’s intensity. The family’s beloved dog, Hutch, also perished in the tragedy. The GoFundMe page, created on December 27, has seen contributions from various local groups, including Minchinhampton RFC and Slimbridge Cygnets Youth Football Club, alongside support from the police union, UNISON.

Community Support and Heartfelt Message

As donations continue to pour in, the page is approaching its target of £450,000. In a statement shared on New Year’s Day, Tom expressed his gratitude for the “out of this world generosity” he has received from the local community. He stated, “I have stared at my keypad for what seems like an eternity waiting for the words to appear. I have no way to thank any of you for the unbelievable out of this world generosity that you have shown to me in the darkest of hours.”

Tom reflected on the profound loss he and the community are experiencing. He noted, “My life, the lives of my loved ones, my friends and the whole community changed on Boxing Day. Most importantly, and tragically, three of the greatest humans to ever grace our presence were taken from not just me, but all of us.”

He continued to describe the trauma of that day, stating, “I cannot begin to describe the anguish and trauma of the events of Boxing Day 2025. My family had its very core, its very essence, ripped from it in the most violent way.”

Legacy and Healing

Despite the unimaginable pain, Tom is determined to honor the legacies of his wife and children. He shared plans to ensure that his wife’s talents in craft and design will live on, as well as his children’s passions. Tom remarked, “I WILL make sure my unbelievably talented, empathetic, compassionate and beautiful wife’s legacy of craft, design and making lives on.”

He expressed gratitude for the essential support he has received, saying, “My family and friends have rallied around and provided me with more than the bare essentials. I have a roof (and many offers) over my head, clothes on my back, food – most importantly company and compassion. I will heal.”

Tom concluded with a heartfelt message, urging everyone to cherish their loved ones. “Please all take every opportunity to hug your loved ones, tell them you love them. Because, as Paulo Coelho said, one day you will wake up and there won’t be any more time to do the things you want. Do it now.”

In memory of his family, floral tributes and messages of sympathy have been placed at the site of the fire. The family has requested that any additional items be taken to Holy Trinity Church in Minchinhampton instead of being left at the scene. Following their wishes, all items previously left at the site have been safely moved to the church.

As the community continues to rally around Tom Shearman in this time of profound grief, the solidarity and support reflect the deep connections that exist within the area. Donations to the GoFundMe campaign are still being accepted, providing an avenue for those wishing to contribute to Tom’s journey of healing.