Community Rallies to Support Takeaway Owners After Devastating Fire
A community comes together to help local takeaway owners rebuild after a fire
Teignmouth, Devon, Fire, Community Support, LJs Beach Shack
Teignmouth: A local community has really stepped up to help the owners of a beloved food hut that was destroyed by fire over the weekend.
Fire crews rushed to LJs Beach Shack on the back beach around 11:15 am on Sunday after reports of a blaze. The owner, Louis Walker, known as LJ, had just opened the hut when the fire started in one of the fryers.
Even though he tried to put it out with extinguishers, the flames spread quickly and took over the place.
His partner, Amy Howse, mentioned how lucky he was to escape without injuries. After the fire was put out, over 50 people from the community, along with family and friends, showed up to help clean up the mess.
People have also been donating to two fundraisers to help rebuild the business, and many have offered practical support to get the owners back on their feet.
“We’ve been blown away by the support, messages, and calls,” Amy said. “So many people have reached out, and we can’t believe it. We’ve always tried to give back to the community, but we never expected this level of support in return.”
A Go Fund Me page set up by Michael Smith from a local VW group has already exceeded its £5000 goal. Another page created by Amy’s family is also well on its way to its £1200 target.
“We didn’t set up any of these pages and never expected anyone to help us financially, but we’re so grateful,” Amy added.
There’s been some chatter online about the business’s insurance, which Amy called “just rumors.” She emphasized they don’t want to share personal details with anyone.
“Small businesses are really struggling with rising costs, and many can’t survive. We thought we might not bounce back from this, but the public has shown a huge desire to help us get back on our feet,” she explained.
Once they rebuild, they plan to have a grand reopening celebration with free food and drinks to thank everyone for their support.
While they’re heartbroken, they’re also incredibly thankful for all the help. “We really don’t have the right words right now,” Amy said.