OUTBUILDING FIRE DESTROYS BEEKEEPER’S EQUIPMENT IN STAPLEHURST — FAMILY LAUNCH FUNDRAISER TO HELP REBUILD
A devastating fire has destroyed the bee-keeping equipment and outbuildings belonging to a much-loved local hobbyist in Staplehurst, prompting a heartfelt fundraising appeal by his granddaughter.
The blaze broke out just after 3:00pm on Sunday 27 July at a property on Green Lane, leading to a significant emergency response by Kent Fire and Rescue Service.
Five fire engines and a bulk water carrier were deployed to tackle the flames, which affected both an outbuilding and surrounding vegetation. Crews used main jets to extinguish the fire over a period of several hours. The incident was brought under control shortly before 9:00pm.
Thankfully, there were no injuries reported, and the cause of the fire is currently under investigation.
Granddaughter Launches Fundraiser to Help Beekeeper Grandad
Among the most tragic outcomes of the fire was the loss of a lifetime’s beekeeping collection. The victim’s granddaughter, Stevie, has since launched a GoFundMe campaign to help her grandfather rebuild.
“Hi, my name is Stevie and I am fundraising for my Grandad,” she wrote in the appeal. “He is a beekeeper and sells honey and other bee-related products as a hobby. Today, a fire broke out at his home and he lost all of his bee equipment and some of his hives. He has invested thousands of pounds and hours of work into this.”
“I have set this goal to help him rebuild his hobby. Every donation will be appreciated.”
Her post has quickly gained local attention, with members of the Kent community rallying in support of the elderly beekeeper.
Official Fire Service Statement
Kent Fire and Rescue Service issued the following update:
“We were called at 15:14 on Sunday 27 July to reports of an outbuilding and surrounding vegetation alight on Green Lane, Staplehurst. Five fire engines and a bulk water carrier attended. Crews used main jets to extinguish the flames. No injuries have been reported and the cause is currently unknown.”
The incident is believed to have caused extensive damage to both the outbuilding and specialist equipment stored within it.
How to Help
If you’d like to support Stevie’s fundraising campaign for her grandfather, you can search for her fundraiser titled:
“Help Grandad Rebuild His Beekeeping Hobby“ on GoFundMe or contact the Sentinel Current for the link.
