The blaze tore through John Hall’s shed, tools and sentimental belongings at Nicholson Field allotments, King Oswy, leaving him with a dangerous structure and piles of waste.
John, who regularly donates his harvest to The Hospital of God Foodbank, also lost crops in the fire.
The grateful pensioner has thanked the local community for raising funds for a new shed and support from his neighbouring allotment holders.
A group of volunteers from Thirteen Housing’s estate team
liaised with Hartlepool Borough Council to meet John at his allotment to clear debris, safely dispose of rubbish and help restore the space.
John said: “My allotment gives me a reason to get up on a morning and I feared I’d never restore what I’d lost. I can’t thank Thirteen enough for the support they have given me after hearing about the fire. There’s work to do, but thanks to Thirteen and the local community, I now have hope that I can rebuild again.”
Thirteen also donated a selection of tools, to help John set back up when he felt ready to do so.
Thirteen’s Estate Service Area Lead, Nadine Stead, said: “This is what community is all about. When someone in our area is struggling, our colleagues don’t hesitate. They show up, they help, and they make a real difference.”
Author: Ian
Reporter and author of Pop Life, covering all things news, music and local events.