A FUNDRAISER has been set up to support the residents affected by the 'devastating' explosion at a home in Roker.

The fundraising page will support the eight affected residents after a "significant explosion" on Whickham Street in Roker just before 4 pm on Tuesday

After emergency services attended the scene, two residents were taken to hospital, two were taken to a nearby hotel and four others stayed with family members, Sunderland-based housing association Gentoo has confirmed.

The Go Fund Me page was set up by Silksworth resident, Dawn Geddes, 37, who is not related to any of the people affected because "it's the only way I can think of to help them", she said on the page.

The Northern Echo: Emergency services at the scene in Whickham Street, Roker, Sunderland, where extensive damage has been caused to a property following a gas explosion. Credit: Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service/PAEmergency services at the scene in Whickham Street, Roker, Sunderland, where extensive damage has been caused to a property following a gas explosion. Credit: Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service/PA

Fundraiser set up to support residents after Roker explosion

Dawn said: "I set it up after seeing the devastating effects of the explosion. I saw what happened yesterday and it was absolutely gut-wrenching.

"I know personally what it's like to lose everything. I was in a house fire years ago and the whole house went up, we lost everything.

"So when I looked at the photos yesterday it was just awful and I just knew I needed to help these people.

"I thought those poor people have been left with absolutely nothing. I don't know their financial situation, I don't know them personally, I just knew I wanted to help.

                                                                                                              

READ MORE: Man who lives next door to destroyed home fears whole 'block' may be torn down

READ MORE: Man injured in suspected gas explosion now in critical but stable condition

                                                                                                              

"The whole city has come together. There could be times when something drastic happens and you would like to think people would come to help."

All of the money raised will be divided among the residents of the affected houses in person, Ms Geddes has confirmed.

The funds are to be used for what they wish "whatever they need to restart and rebuild their home from scratch."

Dawn, along with her friend Ashley Taylor, has also offered furniture and household items that are currently in storage containers for those who need them.

She added: "I put a post on social media to say I have got a storage container with a few household items in it that people can have for free.

"I also have a friend called Ashley Taylor who has a storage container with furniture in that people can have free of charge and he'll also deliver it for free too."

As of 3 pm on Wednesday, the fundraiser has raised £85 towards the organiser's £2000 goal. 

You can donate to the fundraiser directly through the Go Fund Me Page here.

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