COMMUNITY leaders and residents have rallied to support the victim of a devastating house fire who “lost everything”.

Around 50 firefighters battled to save the two-storey family home in Winchester Road on Tuesday.

And now the resident, who has asked not to be named, has thanked those who came to her aid.

The town was brought to a halt earlier this week as news broke of the fire just after 11am.

Her sons, aged 23 and 30, were taken to Southampton General Hospital and treated for smoke inhalation.

Fire crews from seven separate stations fought the blaze for almost 12 hours. The house sustained damage to the ground and first floors. The roof was very badly damaged.

“On Tuesday we lost everything,” she said.

“As a family we have been overwhelmed by the kindness and concern of others.

“We would like to thank all of the emergency services who responded; the firefighters who fought the blaze and saved not only our home but my neighbours’ as well.

“I would also like to thank the ambulance service who took such wonderful care of my boys.

“And a special thank you to Mark Cooper (Romsey Town councillor) who yet again went above and beyond his remit.”

She added: “Thank you to everyone, friends and strangers, who have sent messages of support.

“Thank you seems so inadequate, but we are all truly grateful.”

An investigation will now be carried out by Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service to determine the cause.

Test Valley Borough Council also came to the aid of the resident.

Housing and environmental health cabinet member, councillor Phil Bundy, said: “The council was notified about the house fire and two of our officers attended the site immediately to offer assistance to the homeowner and the occupants of the adjoining properties, which were also affected by the fire.

“We have secured emergency accommodation for the homeowner and have provided food and household essentials. I would like to personally thank the council’s housing team for acting so quickly and sensitively during this distressing time.”